Urhobo Renaissance Society Vows To Promote Urhobo Culture, Language

By ODEYA OGBETUO

Urhobo Renaissance Society (URS), a socio-cultural organization has affirmed its commitment in promoting and preserving Urhobo culture, language and tradition to enable the present and future generations to have a clear identity and be able to speak Urhobo language fluently with pride.

In his welcome address during the 2024 URS Conference at Urhobo House, Uvwiamuge-Agharho in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, the president of Urhobo Renaissance Society, Professor Hope Eghagha said that since the formation of URS in 2017, the Association has been committed to the interest of Urhobo people with the aims of advancing and promoting the Urhobo language, culture, welfare and socio-economic activity of the Urhobo people in all spheres.

Speaking further on the 2024 conference with the theme “Re-thinking Urhobo Origin and Migration, Cuisine and Marriage Rites, Professor Eghagha said that apart from promoting Urhobo culture and language, URS since inception has continued to engage the Nigerian state by joining in stimulating national discussions on restructuring, seaports, the place of minority in the affairs of Nigerian state, stressing that it has also joined in conversation relating to education, agriculture and economic prospects.

Professor Eghagha stated that Urhobo is one of the oldest tribes in Nigeria which has survived for several centuries passing down their rich heritage despite the pressures of modernization.

According to him “We are concerned about the place of Urhobo in the state and National politics, the state of Nigerian nation, investment opportunities in Urhobo land.

We are also concerned about the relationship between URS and other associations and empowerment of Urhobo people. To pursue a radical development of the Urhobo Nation while respecting the integrity and rights of our neighbours. To enhance the tradition, custom and culture of Urhobo people. To institute discipline, self-reliance, patriotism, unity of purpose and selfless defence of Urhobo unity and integrity as ethics of the URS, as well as to create and foster the spirit of understanding and unity among the Urhobo people wherever they are.”

He urged Urhobo parents to speak Urhobo language to their children wherever they are and also give Urhobo names to their children to preserve the language and culture.

Professor Eghagha disclosed that Urhobo people did not originate from Benin but migrated from Benin where they formerly settled centuries ago to their present locations.

The Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori represented by Olorogun Emmanuel Agwariavwodo commended the Urhobo Progress Union and Urhobo Renaissance Society for their efforts and commitment in preserving Urhobo language and culture. He urged Urhobo parents to speak the language from age 1 to 10 years and beyond for the young ones to be able to speak Urhobo language.

“Both UPU and URS have a duty to ensure Urhobo language is spoken and taught in primary and secondary schools in Urhobo land.”

He advised the UPU and URS to draw closer to Governor Oborevwori, stressing that the Governor is ready to listen to their suggestions and also ready to assist in the development of Urhobo land.

The President General of Urhobo Progress Union, Olorogun Barr. Ese Gam Owe said that UPU is for all Urhobo sons and daughters and urged them to identify with Urhobo activities, appealing to them to always attend Urhobo National Conference every December.

He commended the URS for their commitment and donations to flood victims and the Okuama community tragedy.

“Nobody should undermine the unity of Urhobo nation. We have taken the CDS, the Nigerian Army and F.G to Court over the illegal invasion and killing of Okuama people in Ughelli South L.G.A and we are pursuing the case.”

The occasion was attended by some Urhobo traditional rulers and other important personalities.

The chairman of the organizing committee, Chief Emma Avworo said that URS focuses on areas that would improve the socio-economic well-being of Urhobo people apart from promoting unity, cultural heritage, language and preservation of custom and tradition of Urhobo people.

He stated that URS has been carrying out programmes that will enhance Urhobo living standard through donations, enlightenment and awareness creation through social platforms among others.

Several lectures were delivered such as ‘Urhobo Origin and Migration’ by Professor Andrew Onoaware Edevbie, ‘Urhobo Cuisines and Marriage Rites’ by Professor Rose Aziza.

The president generals of the 24 Kingdoms in Urhobo land also gave talks on their kingdoms.