Urhobo Monarchs Should Stay Above 2027 Politics, Group Tells Traditional Rulers

As the 2027 general elections gather momentum, a political pressure group, the Delta Central Realistic and Political Movement, has urged traditional rulers in Urhobo land to remain above partisan politics in the interest of unity, identity and oneness of the Urhobo nation.

The group made the call in a communiqué issued after an elaborate meeting held in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, and signed by its Chairman, Rev. Peter Erarute, and Secretary, Apostle Etarunu Imonirorho.

The group said the traditional institution was sacred and should not be dragged into partisan politics or used to serve personal or political interests.

According to the communiqué, it was unfortunate that an institution regarded as the custodian of Urhobo culture and traditions would take sides when major political candidates contesting the governorship election are all subjects of the various traditional rulers.

The group maintained that Urhobo monarchs should instead use their positions to call on all governorship candidates to embrace peace, maintain decorum and conduct violence-free campaigns throughout the electioneering period.

The communiqué stated, “Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori of APC, Chief Great Ovedje Ogboru of ADC, SAN Emakpo of PDP and Chief Eyovwaye of NDC are all your subjects from the 24 kingdoms of the Urhobo nation.”

It added that the traditional rulers, as fathers of the people, should pray for all the candidates and avoid giving preferential treatment to one candidate over the others.

The group argued that the reported adoption of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori by the Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo and the Forum of Urhobo Traditional Rulers did not reflect the collective identity, unity and oneness of the Urhobo people.

It described the development as an unacceptable departure from the traditional role of monarchs, arguing that the palace should remain a place where all subjects, irrespective of political affiliation, are welcomed.

The group further referenced Sections 40 and 42 of the 1999 Constitution, arguing that citizens have the right to freedom of association and participation in political activities, and urged traditional rulers to protect these rights.

It also questioned the decision to adopt one governorship candidate, asking why Governor Oborevwori was seeking endorsements from traditional institutions instead of allowing his achievements and projects to speak for him.

According to the group, traditional rulers in other ethnic groups, including the Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko and Anioma, had not been seen openly taking sides when their sons contested for the governorship of Delta State.

The group therefore called on Urhobo traditional rulers to reconsider partisan endorsements and remain neutral, insisting that the 2027 election should be about competence, accountability, peace and the collective interest of all Deltans rather than palace endorsements or ethnic considerations.