Asaba, Delta State – January 18, 2026 — Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has extended heartfelt felicitations to His Royal Majesty, Obukowho Monday Whiskey, JP, PhD, Udurhie I, the paramount ruler (Ovie) of Idjerhe Kingdom, as the revered monarch celebrates his 60th birth anniversary and the fifth anniversary of his coronation on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
In a press release issued on behalf of the people of Delta Central, Senator Dafinone described the double celebration as a "remarkable milestone" that reflects God's abundant grace, a life dedicated to service, and a reign characterized by wisdom, peace, and dignity. The senator emphasized that this occasion serves as a profound moment to honor the monarch's enduring impact on Idjerhe Kingdom and the broader Urhobo nation.
Idjerhe Kingdom, situated in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, stands as the second-largest kingdom in Urhoboland, encompassing around 97 communities—many of which are oil-producing. Its headquarters, Jesse Town, serves as the central commercial and cultural hub. Founded historically in the early 13th century (around 1202 AD) by Prince Erhuekevwe Idjerhe Idjessa from Agbarha-Otor, the kingdom boasts a rich Urhobo heritage, including unique traditions like the Okurru native communication system. Despite its significant contributions to Nigeria's economy through crude oil production, Idjerhe has faced challenges such as environmental degradation from oil activities, the tragic 1998 Jesse pipeline fire disaster that claimed over 1,500 lives, and occasional communal tensions.
HRM Udurhie I ascended the throne in late 2020 following a rigorous traditional selection process by kingmakers after the passing of his predecessor, HRM Edward Igho Otadaferua, Erhiekevwe I, in November 2018. The monarch's installation occurred on September 28, 2020, with the Delta State Government officially presenting the staff of office on October 26, 2020. A veteran journalist with over three decades of experience, Udurhie I previously served as South-South Editor for a national daily, Special Adviser on Media to the pioneer chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), and Coordinator of Media Affairs for Host Communities of Nigeria (HOSCON). Holding first and second degrees in Mass Communication, he completed his PhD in the same field at Delta State University, Abraka, in 2024, underscoring his commitment to intellectual excellence even after ascending the throne.
Since his coronation, Udurhie I's reign has been marked by a harmonious blend of tradition and progressive thought. Senator Dafinone particularly commended the monarch for elevating the institution of traditional rulership through his academic distinction and enlightened worldview. This has positioned Idjerhe Kingdom as a beacon of cultural pride, responsible leadership, and forward-thinking governance within Delta State and the Urhobo ethnic nationality.
The monarch has prioritized peace-building, youth engagement, and community development. His leadership has fostered unity across the kingdom's sub-clans (including Jesse Central Oguedion, Boboroku, and Oyonubu), strengthened communal bonds, and promoted dialogue as a tool for resolving disputes. The palace under Udurhie I has served as a moral compass and rallying point for consensus-building and grassroots advancement, reinforcing the relevance of traditional institutions in modern Nigeria. His efforts have contributed to stability, with influences extending beyond Idjerhe to neighboring communities and stakeholders statewide.
Notable initiatives include advocacy for equitable benefits from oil resources, calls for federal intervention in neglected areas like infrastructure and education, and diplomatic engagements—such as his 2025 visit to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, where both rulers emphasized stronger synergy between traditional rulers and government for national unity, cultural preservation, and regional development in the Niger Delta.
Senator Dafinone highlighted the monarch's steadfast commitment to these values, noting that they remain worthy of emulation. As Udurhie I marks six decades of purposeful living and five impactful years on the throne, the senator prayed for continued divine guidance: "May the Almighty God grant you continued good health, renewed strength, and greater wisdom. May your reign be long, peaceful, and prosperous, and may Idjerhe Kingdom continue to flourish under your royal guidance."
The celebrations have drawn widespread tributes, including from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, which hailed the monarch's "immeasurable contributions" to peace, unity, and progress over the past five years, extending his influence beyond traditional boundaries.
Senator Ede Dafinone, a chartered accountant, philanthropist, and APC member since 2014, has consistently championed Urhobo interests through effective representation, infrastructure advocacy, peace-building, and empowerment initiatives in Delta Central. His felicitation aligns with broader efforts to support traditional leaders in driving socio-economic growth and cultural preservation.
As Idjerhe Kingdom reflects on this milestone, the focus remains on sustaining the momentum of stability, development, and cultural pride under Udurhie I's wise stewardship. The monarch's journey from the newsroom to the palace exemplifies how intellectual rigor and traditional authority can converge for the greater good of the people.
