By Watchman

Prominent Urhobo leaders, intellectuals, and stakeholders convened on Saturday at Ughelli Hall, Delta State, to intensify their demand for the creation of Urhobo State from the present Delta State.

The historic town hall meeting, organized by the Urhobo State Creation Committee, brought together influential voices from home and abroad to articulate the necessity of establishing Urhobo State in the interest of justice, equity, and regional development.

The event was attended by key figures, including Chief Dr. Ominimini Obiuwevbi, Chairman of the Committee; Dr. Wilson Omene, Director of Publicity; Engr. Anthony Onyokoko, FNSE, National Secretary; and Chief Mrs. Omodoro Adeseye Ogunlewe, Chairman of the Diaspora Committee, among others.

In his keynote address, Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi emphasized that the creation of Urhobo State is both a moral imperative and an economic necessity.

He said; “Urhobo is the largest ethnic group in Delta State and the fourth largest in Nigeria. If any new state is to be created from Delta, it must be for the Urhobo people,”.

He highlighted the region’s contributions to Nigeria’s economy, particularly through oil and gas production. “Urhobo produces the highest oil and gas in Delta State, with over 350 oil wells. We also have institutions like the Federal Polytechnic in Orogun and the University of Petroleum Resources in Effurun, which ensure our readiness to thrive as an independent state,” Obiuwevbi added.

A motion for the creation of Urhobo State, moved by Chief Lucky Edumidagha, President-General of Idjerhe Kingdom, and seconded by Chief Magistrate Esther Onoberhie (Mrs), was unanimously adopted by the attendees.

The resolution stated: Proposed Urhobo State Map “The Urhobo people have unanimously endorsed the creation of Urhobo State from the present Delta State to make it the seventh state in the South-South geopolitical zone. Urhobo State will be economically viable, given our abundant resources in agriculture, oil, and gas, as well as vast human capital. We call on our National Assembly members to champion this cause and move the motion for Urhobo State in their legislative duties.”

The stakeholders also reaffirmed their commitment to preserving Urhobo culture. “Our language and traditions are fading,” said Chief Odafe Omene, Director of Publicity. “The creation of Urhobo State will allow us to invest in cultural preservation and revive our values for future generations.” Chief Mrs. Omodoro Adeseye Ogunlewe, speaking on behalf of Urhobo people in the diaspora, called for collective effort. “This is not just about political boundaries but about preserving our identity and ensuring equitable governance for our people,” she said. “Let us unite and speak with one voice to make this dream a reality.” Ovie Princewill Emeofa, Coordinating Secretary of the Diaspora Committee, joined the meeting virtually, stressing that the creation of Urhobo State is vital for addressing decades of neglect. “This is not about division but preservation,” he remarked.

“Urhobo deserves a state to protect its heritage and fulfill its developmental aspirations.” The speakers underscored the economic viability of Urhobo State, citing its abundant resources in oil, gas, and agriculture. “Urhobo can feed its people and neighboring states, thanks to its fertile land and rich natural resources,” Obiuwevbi said.

Dr. Wilson Omene added, “It is unjust for the fourth-largest ethnic group in Nigeria to remain without a state when smaller tribes have been granted statehood. Urhobo State must be prioritized in the next round of state creation.” The meeting concluded with a resolution to intensify consultations with political leaders, both at the state and federal levels, to push for the legislative action required to create Urhobo State. The stakeholders also urged all Urhobo sons and daughters to rally behind the cause, ensuring their collective voice is heard loud and clear.

“The call for Urhobo State has never been stronger,” Chief Obiuwevbi declared. “The time for equity, recognition, and development is now.”