By Innocent Anaba

Traditional rulers of Urhobo extraction have pledged to collaborate more closely with the people of the ancient Aboh Kingdom to foster greater socio-cultural and economic cooperation.

The Ovie of Agbara-Warri Kingdom, Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Igbi II, made this declaration when he led five prominent Urhobo monarchs on a solidarity visit to the traditional ruler of Aboh Kingdom, Obi Dr. Gregory Oputa III, at his palace in Aboh, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State.

The Ovie described the visit as an expression of love and solidarity with their Aboh counterpart, whom he referred to as “one of their own.” He recalled Aboh’s historical significance as a foremost ancient kingdom, emphasizing that its people were blessed to have Dr. Gregory Nnamdi Oputa III as their king.

The Agbara-Warri monarch urged the sons and daughters of Aboh Kingdom to unite and work collectively under the leadership of His Majesty, Dr. Gregory Oputa III, to accelerate the kingdom’s development.

Similarly, the traditional ruler of Idjerhe Kingdom and spokesperson of the Urhobo Traditional Rulers’ Forum, HRM Obukowho Monday Whiskey, Udurhie I, described the visit as historic and significant. He emphasized that it would promote unity, mutual trust, understanding, and cooperation among Delta monarchs despite their cultural diversities.

He further noted that the visit would strengthen the longstanding cultural affinity between the Urhobo people and Aboh and open new avenues for economic growth and development in their respective kingdoms.

In response, the Obi of Aboh Kingdom,  expressed gratitude for the solidarity visit, stating that it had further reinforced and emboldened his authority as the chief custodian of Aboh’s culture and traditions.

In an interview, the Ajuwa of Aboh Kingdom, Chief Tony Amechi, and the Igboba of Aboh Kingdom, Chief Tony Uti, described the visit as a turning point in the annals of the kingdom’s historical evolution.