Evwreni Clan Improvement Union Ogor branch in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State celebrated its cultural day in grand style on Saturday, December 14, 2024.
The celebration which took place at the Engr. Dr. Samuel Adjogbe playground, Etakpere Avenue Ovwodokpokpor-Ogor off Asaba Expressway was characterised by cultural dance, Evwreni historical lectures, quiz competition on Evwreni tradition, and cuisine.
It had in attendance the President General of Evwreni Kingdom, Chief Kenneth Ukpebitere, Chief Felix Ayovwe, the Otota rode of Evwreni Kingdom, Odion rode of Evwreni Kingdom (regent) High Chief Wilfred Utuedor, Rtd Major John Ovwufeti and Chairman, Evwreni Elders and Leaders of Thought.
In his speech at the event, the President of Evwreni Clan Improvement Union Ogor branch, Sir Fidelis Adjogbe expressed gratitude to everyone for their tireless efforts and dedication adding that their hard work has propelled ECIU, Ogor branch to unprecedented heights.
“Today, we gather to embrace the rich diversity that makes our communities vibrant and strong. This event is a testament to our commitment to inclusiveness, respect, and mutual understanding.
“As we gather to celebrate our rich cultural heritage, we also acknowledge the common threads that bind us together. We recognize the beauty of traditional music, dance, art, and cuisine that reflects our unique heritage.
“The Evwreni Clan Improvement Union (ECIU) Ogor branch was inaugurated on the 3rd of April 2022 by the immediate past President General, Mr. Bright Adjogbe with the Late Prince Matthew Uba as its pioneer president, may he rest in peace, Amen,” said Fidelis Adjogbe.
Continuing, he said on assumption of office as the second elected President of ECIU Ogor branch on March 31, 2024, with the cooperation of all executives and members, his leadership has been able to record some remarkable achievements in areas such as the establishment of the ECIU Ogor Branch Multiple Purpose Cooperative society, acquisition of a common attire (uniform) for identity, opening of the ECIU Ogor branch account, Nominal roll call of over thirty active members and appointment of two of the branch members as ex-officio of NEC
He however noted that all the achievements would not have been possible without the support of the illustrious sons and daughters of Evwreni who have supported his executive in one way or another.
Fidelis Adjogbe said, “Special thanks to Engr. Dr. (Olorogun) Samuel Adjogbe FNSE, AKS, who has freely made available his hotel premises for us to hold our monthly meetings and this space for today’s activities.
“We thank Her Excellency, Chief Mrs (Dcns) Tobore Oborevwori, for her continuous motherly support towards the cause of a better Evwreni Kingdom.
“We thank in a special way, Chief Felix Ayovwe, the Otota Rode of Evwreni Kingdom, Chief Mrs. Meg Atano, Vice chairman of Ughelli North LGA Council and all present. We appreciate your support in no small measure.
“Let us come together, learn from each other, foster a spirit of unity and mutual respect, and build Evwreni of peace, equity, and justice.”
Speaking on the origin, founding fathers of the four quarters of Evwreni clan and the existence of the traditional institutions of the Ovie of Evwreni and the Otota of Evwreni amongst others, Chief Felix Ayowe faulted two opinions on the origin of Evwreni people expressed by S. E. Johnson and J. W. Hubbard in his book ‘Sobo of Niger Delta’ as well as the history recorded by P. W. Woodhouse in 1931.
Chief Ayowe traced the origin of Evwreni people to when they migrated from Bini Kingdom many centuries ago as a result of the crises which broke out in the kingdom at that time.
“The founders of Evwreni that migrated from Benin were many and they found their various sections of the present Evwreni Town, the administrative headquarters of Evwreni Kingdom in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State,” said Chief Ayowe.
