UDU/Nigeria: In a powerful show of respect and unity, the Member representing Udu/Ughelli North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Revd Francis Ejiroghene Waive, on Sunday led a high-powered delegation to pay homage to the new Ovie of Udu Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Engr. Mike Ogheneovo Orugbo, JP, KP, Okporua I.
The colourful visit, which took place at the monarch’s temporary palace, attracted a massive turnout of political leaders, religious figures, party stalwarts, prominent chiefs, and respected personalities from across Udu Kingdom and beyond. It marked the first official visit to the newly crowned monarch by a federal legislator since his ascension to the throne, and was laced with traditional elegance and cultural celebration.
The event featured the energetic Udje dance by the renowned Aladja troupe and other rich elements of Udu heritage, turning the homage into a grand cultural carnival. Hon. Waive, who is maternally from Otor-Udu, the traditional and political headquarters of the Udu people, was greeted with songs, dances, and cheers from a jubilant crowd.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Waive praised the peaceful emergence of His Majesty and commended his sterling pedigree and reputation, which he said extend far beyond Delta State. “Udu Kingdom has been blessed with a true and worthy king,” he declared, adding that he would actively support the upcoming presentation of the Staff of Office to the monarch as well as the rites of passage of the late Ovie.
He also used the occasion to highlight several of his constituency achievements, particularly in Udu, including the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre, Ovwian—an initiative he described as one of his most impactful legislative feats. He formally introduced the newly appointed Chief Medical Director of the FMC, Chief Prof. Kingsley Akaba, a distinguished son of Udu Kingdom, to the monarch and the gathering.
In his response, HRM Engr. Mike Orugbo expressed deep appreciation for the visit, describing Hon. Waive as a genuine son of the soil. He commended the lawmaker’s performance and dedication to the welfare of the Udu people, assuring him of the palace’s continued support in matters affecting the kingdom’s development and peace.
The ceremony also featured royal blessings, the exchange of symbolic gifts, and a brief reception in honour of the visitors.
Speaking at the close of the event, the Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode, praised Hon. Waive for his statesmanship and the initiative to connect with the traditional institution. “This visit is a laudable step towards strengthening the bond between the political class and our revered traditional leadership. It is vital for sustainable development and harmony,” Oyibode said, describing Waive as a rare political figure with verifiable results.
Dignitaries at the historic gathering included Chief Sam Odibo, Otota of Udu Kingdom; Chief Richard Odibo; Chief Henry Afure Sakpra; Chief Austin Emaduku; Chief Lucky Mughelle; Chief Friday Orugbo; Chief Bruno Akpomedarho; Chief Moses Uparan; Chief Dr. Richard Iyede; Prof. Kingsley Akaba, CMD, FMC Ovwian; Prof. Ezekiel Agbalagba, Vice Chancellor of FUPRE, Effurun; Chief Steve Sokoh; Ven. Gabriel Kpagban; Hon. Justice Iyasere, former Vice Chairman of Udu LGA.
