Agbarha Warri thrown into mourning as monarch transits

By Ambrose Ologide, Warri

The ancient Urhobo Kingdom of Agbarha Warri in Warri South Local Government Area was thrown to a state of mourning as the most senior chief of the kingdom, High Chief Willie Atebefia Digbori JP ,announced the transition of HRM London Aforkerhi Itu JP Ememoh 11 the Ovie of Agbarha Warri Kingdom on Wednesday 15th March, 2023.

Digbori who became the Chairman of the Regency Council of the kingdom after the transition of the traditional ruler at a crowded press conference in Igbudu Regency Hall , Warri traditionally declared the royal stool vacant.

” A three ( 3) months period of mourning throughout the seven ( 7) towns of Agbarha Warri Kingdom viz: Otovwodo (Agbassa ) Igbudu, Edjeba, Okurode ( Ekurede Urhobo ), Ogunu, Oteghele , Ukpokiti and their satellite villages , and within this period, there is an opportunity for condolence visits here in the Regency Council Hall Igbudu ” Digbori added.

The Chairman Agbarha Warri Regency Council had earlier stated that Agbarha Warri was an autonomous kingdom ” as shown in Delta State Rulers Council and Chiefs Edict of 1998 .

” His Royal Majesty London Aforkerhi Itu JP was our first gazzeted monarch.

” Prior to and from time immemorial, Agbarha Warri Clan was ruled by the eldest man ( gerontocracy) . Digbori added.

He further disclosed that the traditional ruler fondly called Orhifi was enthroned on 9th of April 1998 and that he was given staff of office on 13th April 1999 making it 25 years on the throne .

Pius Akpodeta , a lawyer was the Master of Ceremony of the event that was well attended by a cross section of Agbarha Warri Kingdom.

A galaxy of Agbarha Warri chiefs embarked on a prossesion from Otovwodo Agbassa Community to Igbudu Community shortly before the press conference.