The people of Evwreni Kingdom in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State on Saturday formally crowned Major John Oudley Ovwufeti (Rtd) as the 16th Odion Orode (traditional head of the kingdom), in a colourful ceremony held at the Ogbudu Ancestral Hall in Okpahwa community.
The traditional rite was conducted by the eldest man of Ogbudu, Pa Samuel Okoro, in line with long-standing customs and succession practices recognised within the kingdom.
Community sources confirmed that the installation followed the completion of prescribed rituals and consultations with key family lineages and traditional stakeholders.
Speaking shortly after his crowning, the new Odion Orode, who adopted the regnal title Ewhuru Achichi II, pledged to promote unity, justice and development across the kingdom.
“This throne is not for one family or group; it belongs to the entire Evwreni people. I will work with all sons and daughters of the land to restore our lost glory and ensure peace and progress,” he said.
He symbolically used salt and water during the post-installation rites, a cultural gesture traditionally associated with purification and reconciliation, while urging residents at home and in the diaspora to support community development initiatives.
In his first official act, the monarch announced the appointment of Mr Joseph Akoma as Prime Minister of Evwreni Kingdom, tasking him with coordinating administrative and development efforts.
“We must strengthen our institutions, revive community values and attract meaningful investments that will benefit our youths and future generations,” Odion Orode added.
Prominent indigenes who attended the ceremony expressed optimism that the new leadership would usher in stability and growth.
Chief Eric Osharode described the coronation as “a turning point for renewed unity,” while Pastor Augustine Unuebo urged the monarch to maintain fairness and openness in dispute resolution.
Mr John Aki also called for inclusive governance, noting that “the success of this reign will depend on how well all interest groups are carried along.”
Sir Michael Ovwufeti, younger brother to the monarch, thanked community leaders and elders for ensuring a peaceful transition.
He emphasised that collective support would be crucial in addressing developmental challenges facing the kingdom.
The Odion Orode institution, regarded as a central authority in traditional administration within Evwreni, plays key roles in conflict mediation, cultural preservation and grassroots mobilisation for development.
Observers say expectations are high that the new Odion Orode’s military background and administrative experience could help reposition the kingdom socially and economically.
