The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union (Worldwide) has restated its commitment to the recognition of Okpe as a distinct ethnic nationality, following recent public comments by the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom.
In a statement, the union reviewed issues raised in the monarch’s declaration and presented historical references supporting Okpe’s independent identity.
According to the Union, its leadership thoroughly examined the Orodje’s comments and revisited documented historical accounts that describe the evolution and development of the Okpe people.
The NEC noted that its position is based on long-standing records and research that emphasize Okpe’s unique history, language, and cultural heritage.
The union expressed concern that the recent public statement could create misunderstanding about Okpe origins.
Recounting past engagements, the Union highlighted the Orodje’s earlier role as an advocate for Okpe identity.
It referenced instances where His Royal Majesty had encouraged initiatives aimed at promoting Okpe culture and language, including participation in major conferences and approval of resolutions championing Okpe self-identification.
Read Also: Ṣọlá Allyson: Jesus needs no promotion, he’s not a brand
The union also cited speeches delivered between 2006 and 2007 in which the Orodje described Okpe as a “unique ethnic nationality” with deep historical ties to the Benin Kingdom but distinct in language, customs, and traditions.
The Okpe union reiterated that several historical studies—including those commissioned during the Orodje’s reign—describe Okpe as an autonomous group with a lineage tracing back to Okpe, the progenitor whose four sons founded the present kingdom.
These studies, the Union stated, maintain that Okpe is linguistically and culturally distinct from neighbouring ethnic nationalities.
The union recalled documented migratory waves from the Benin Kingdom into the region now known as Delta Central Senatorial District.
It emphasized that Okpe migration occurred later than earlier settlements commonly associated with Urhobo groups, strengthening the claim of separate origins and independent development.
The founding of Okpe Kingdom by the four princely brothers—Orhue, Orhoro, Evbreke, and Esezi—was noted as a key moment affirming Okpe autonomy.
The statement also addressed colonial administrative decisions that grouped different ethnic nationalities under broader labels for convenience.
The union argued that this contributed to long-term misconceptions about Okpe identity.
It noted similar historical classifications of other groups, such as the Isoko, who later reclaimed recognition as a distinct people.
Affirming the uniqueness of the Okpe Nation, the Union explained that its people share a common ancestry, language, culture, and traditions, all of which align with established characteristics of ethnic nationalities.
It emphasized that the Okpe Kingdom possesses a defined territory, a functioning traditional institution, and a cohesive population historically tied to its founding families.
Calling for unity, the Union urged all Okpe people worldwide to remain committed to the ongoing advocacy for formal recognition of Okpe as a distinct ethnic nationality.
It stressed the importance of preserving the cultural and historical values handed down by the founding ancestors and maintaining the role of the Okpe monarchy as a symbol of collective unity and heritage.
The statement was signed by Prof. O. Igho Natufe, President General; Barrister Kingsley Ehensiri Akpederin, General Secretary; and Barrister Victor Oruno, National Publicity Secretary of the Okpe Union (Worldwide).