By Lucky Uto
The President General of the Ughelli Descendants Union (UDU), Chief Samuel Akpemige, has urged sons and daughters of Ughelli Kingdom to unite and speak with one voice in order to restore the kingdom’s lost political influence and past glory.
Akpemige made the call during the unveiling of the Ughelli Kingdom Formidable Movement, a pressure group created to re-strategize and reposition the kingdom politically.
According to him, Ughelli Kingdom was once one of the most recognized kingdoms in Urhobo land, but lamented that the kingdom has gradually lost its influence and recognition over the years.
He also expressed concern that the kingdom currently lacks representation in key political positions at both the state and federal levels.
“Today, Ughelli sons and daughters are not occupying positions in the State House of Assembly, National Assembly, ministerial appointments, or federal agencies,” he said.
Chairman of the occasion, Bishop Dr. Kingsley Enakirheri, in his remarks, thanked participants for attending and stressed the need for unity among the people of Ughelli Kingdom, regardless of political differences.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Douglas Omotor also highlighted the poor representation of Ughelli at both the state and national assemblies.
He reminded the gathering that in the past, the kingdom spoke with one voice and urged current leaders to work together to achieve better political results.
The Otota of Ughelli Kingdom, Olorogun Peter Akpofure, represented by Chief Agboye, said the kingdom has a large population and can wield significant political influence if the people remain united.
A major highlight of the event was the official unveiling of the Ughelli Kingdom Formidable Movement by the special guest, Chief Lawrence Emareyo, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ricky Hotel.
Earlier, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Hezekiah Ugbuwiako, thanked the 22 community presidents and other sons and daughters of Ughelli Kingdom for attending the event and urged them to remain committed to protecting the interests of the kingdom.
