Olomu Kingdom Mourns as Monarch Passes On

The Olomu Kingdom in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State has declared a month-long period of mourning following the death of its traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty Ovie Macaulay Popo Ovbagbedia, Uhurhie-Osadjere II.

The announcement was made at the royal palace in Ovwor-Olomu by the kingdom’s spokesperson, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN), in the presence of the traditional council and members of the royal family.

The late monarch, who ascended the throne in May 2023, was honoured with traditional rites, including a ceremonial firing of 21 cannon shots and a performance by Ema dancers,  a symbolic farewell to the ancestral realm.

In line with custom, markets in the Olomu Kingdom will remain shut and all burial and marriage ceremonies are suspended until 12 August. Shops may operate under limited conditions.

Chiefs have also been instructed to wear black armbands and avoid the kingdom’s signature red chieftaincy caps during the mourning period.

A five-minute silence was observed in memory of the late Ohworode, who was widely respected across Delta State and beyond.