…describes Monarch as beacon of unity and wisdom

By Paul Olayemi

Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents Delta Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has expressed profound grief over the passing of the revered traditional ruler of Olomu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Ovie Macaulay Popo Ovbagbedia, JP, Uhurhie-Osadjere II, describing his death as a monumental loss not only to Olomu but to the entire Urhobo Nation.

The Senator, in a statement personally signed and released on Saturday, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family, the Council of Chiefs, and the entire Olomu people. “The official announcement of his transition by the Otota of the Kingdom, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, SAN, brings a deep sense of loss to all of us,” Dafinone said.

According to him, the late Ohworode was a shining symbol of cultural dignity, moral rectitude, and a promoter of peace and progress during his reign. “He was not only a custodian of our revered traditions but a source of wisdom, a unifier, and a man of peace,” the statement read.

Senator Dafinone highlighted the monarch’s exemplary service before ascending the throne, noting that his many years as the Otata of Olomu Kingdom, coupled with his previous role as a Deputy Commissioner of Police, prepared him for his eventual kingship, which he executed with honour and grace.

“In his short but impactful reign, HRM Uhurhie-Osadjere II displayed clarity of purpose, dignity, and a deep commitment to the advancement of his people,” Dafinone said, adding that the late monarch’s legacy would be remembered for generations to come.

While mourning the passage of the revered king, the Senator urged the Olomu Kingdom and the entire Urhobo nation to draw strength from the monarch’s exemplary life. “In this moment of grief, I urge the people of Olomu Kingdom and the broader Urhobo Nation to take solace in the impactful life His Royal Majesty lived,” he said.

Senator Dafinone also encouraged the people to uphold the virtues the monarch stood for: “May we honour his memory by upholding the values he stood for — unity, integrity, and peaceful coexistence.”

He described the monarch’s passing as the end of a remarkable chapter in the traditional leadership of Urhoboland. “The Ohworode’s reign was defined by discipline, fairness, and commitment to the service of his people. His royal carriage and quiet strength will be missed,” Dafinone added.

On behalf of his family and constituents, the Senator prayed for eternal rest for the departed monarch and for divine comfort for the bereaved. “I pray that Almighty God grants the Ohworode eternal rest and comforts the Royal Family, the Olomu Traditional Council, and all who mourn this monumental loss,” he said.

The late Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, HRM Uhurhie-Osadjere II, was revered for his intellect, humility, and dedication to tradition. His transition marks a significant moment in Urhobo history, one that will not be forgotten in a hurry.