Urhobo Monarchs Ban Chiefs From Joining Parallel Associations

The Urhobo Traditional Rulers Council has issued a strong directive barring chiefs from joining rival groups outside their respective kingdoms. The decision was announced by the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, HRM Udurhie I, following a meeting of monarchs hosted at the palace of the Ovie of Oghara Kingdom on Tuesday.

He stated that under the leadership of the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, Dr. Emmanuel Sideso, the council agreed that no chief within or outside Urhobo territory is permitted to belong to any association other than the traditional council of his or her kingdom. The move follows rising concerns over splinter groups, including one known as the Urhobo Traditional Chiefs Association, headed by Chief Joe Omene.

The monarchs reaffirmed the long-standing tradition that each kingdom’s chiefs are members only of its traditional council, and that this structure remains the authoritative system for all 24 Urhobo kingdoms. They warned that joining any parallel organisation constitutes a violation of traditional norms and threatens unity within the institution.

Udurhie I added that chiefs who disregard the directive will face strict sanctions from their kings. He stressed that all chiefs were installed by royal authority and must remain loyal to their kingdoms, noting that no umbrella body exists outside the established councils.