As the race for the next Ovie of Udu Kingdom intensifies, Hon. (Chief) Wisdom Ogheneochuko Ghaghara (JP), on Monday 12th May 2025, in Oghior Community, expressed his intention to vie for the kingship. This announcement comes in light of the recent passing of the late Ovie of Udu Kingdom, HRM Bethel Delekpe, Owhoru 1.

During a stakeholders meeting held at the Oghior Community Town Hall, Hon. Ghaghara articulated his ambition for the vacant throne, emphasizing the importance of adhering to tradition and due process in selecting the next monarch. He cautioned that “The issue of kingship should not be politicized; we must follow tradition as it demands. This is the only way we can ensure peace”.

It would be recalled that a section of the media last week reported that the leadership of the Okporua Ruling House gathered to endorse the candidacy of Engr Mike Orugbo as the next monarch.

However, the President General of the Oghior Community, Moses O. Uchere Esq., while addressing the community leaders, including elders, women and youths dispelled the rumors that the Oghior community had prematurely endorsed a candidate for the kingship. He noted that the 1979 Edict, governing the succession to the throne, would be adhere strictly in choosing the next king.

He affirmed that the process was opened to every qualified son of the Okporua ruling house. He underscored that the declaration of one candidate does not prevent anyone from indicating interest in the seat. “It is the right of anyone from the Okporua ruling house to contest for the kingship,” he explained, outlining that after candidates declare their intentions, the Okporua ruling house will collectively examine the credentials of the individuals, thereafter select one they think is the best. He urged those interested in the throne not to jump the gun.

The gathering of the Oghior Community sons and daughters was aimed at providing an opportunity for qualified individuals to announce their aspirations publicly. Oghior Community constitutes one of the five groups that comprise the Okporua ruling house responsible for producing the next king of Udu Kingdom. With four sons of Oghior expressing their intentions, the community stressed the need to support a unified candidate to enhance their chances during the upcoming council of chiefs election.

In addition to Hon. (Chief) Wisdom Ghaghara (JP), other individuals who have declared their intentions to contest include Chief Ernest Mere, Chief Onos Gasper Igwre, and Kesiana Joseph Towe. The Oghior community is committed to supporting these candidates while navigating the selection process respectfully and thoughtfully.

It is important to note that Chief Ghaghara is a community leader who has contributed significantly to the security and development of Udu Kingdom. He has previously served as President General of Oghior Community. In addition, he serves as Director General of Udu Security Taskforce. On the political front, he represented Udu Ward one compromising Oghior and Otor-Udu in the legislative arm. Honourable Ghaghara is a graduate of political science from the Delta State University, Abraka.
He also served as board member/treasurer OML 34 CDB and Special Assistant to the immediate past Governor of Delta State.