The ancient Olomu Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State has been thrown into mourning following the transition of its traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty, Ovie Macaulay Popo Ovbagbedia, Uhurhie-Osadjere II, the Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom.
The revered monarch, who ascended the throne on May 20, 2023, was announced to have joined his ancestors during a solemn ceremony held at his palace in Ovwor-Olomu community.
The official announcement was made by the Otota (traditional prime minister) of the kingdom, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje, SAN.He was flanked by members of the Olomu Traditional Council of Chiefs and the late monarch’s family during the announcement, which was accompanied by traditional Ema dancers and the symbolic firing of 21 cannon shots.
As a mark of respect and in accordance with Olomu customs, all markets in the kingdom have been ordered shut. In addition, the kingdom has suspended all burial and marriage ceremonies, and commercial activities have been restricted to partial transactions.Furthermore, the Olomu Kingdom has declared a one-month mourning period effective from July 12 to August 12, 2025.
During this period, all chiefs in the kingdom wear black mourning bands on their left hands and are barred from wearing the traditional Olomu red chieftaincy cap in honour of the departed king.
A five-minute silence was also observed during the announcement ceremony as a mark of respect for the late monarch, whose reign, though brief, was marked by a deep commitment to tradition, unity, and the development of the Olomu Kingdom.
Funeral arrangements and further traditional rites are expected to be announced in the coming days.
