By Francis Sadhere, Warri
The Urhobo Renaissance Society (URS) has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting Urhobo culture, language, and traditions during its 2024 conference held at Urhobo House, Uvwianugie-Agharho in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State.
The conference, themed “Re-thinking Urhobo Origin and Migration, Cuisine and Marriage Rites,” served as a platform to discuss the rich heritage of the Urhobo people and address critical issues affecting their future.
In his welcome address, Professor Hope Eghagha, President of the Urhobo Renaissance Society, emphasized the organization’s ongoing mission to safeguard the Urhobo language and culture, ensuring that future generations are equipped with a strong sense of identity.
He noted that since its establishment in 2017, URS has focused on advancing the welfare and socio-economic activities of the Urhobo people, while also engaging with national issues, including restructuring, minority rights, education, agriculture, and economic development.
Professor Eghagha pointed out that Urhobo is one of Nigeria’s oldest tribes, with a history that spans centuries. Despite the pressures of modernization, the Urhobo people have maintained their cultural heritage.
He also noted that the URS is committed to promoting unity and self-reliance among the Urhobo people, emphasizing the importance of respecting the rights of neighboring communities while working toward the development of Urhobo land.
The URS president encouraged Urhobo parents to speak the language at home and give Urhobo names to their children to help preserve the culture.
He also refuted claims that the Urhobo people originated from Benin, stating that they migrated from Benin centuries ago to their current locations.
In a show of support, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Olorogun Emmanuel Agwariavwodo, commended both the URS and the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) for their dedication to preserving the Urhobo language and culture.
He urged Urhobo parents to prioritize speaking the language from a young age, noting that both UPU and URS have a role in ensuring that the Urhobo language is taught in schools within Urhobo land.
Governor Oborevwori expressed his willingness to listen to suggestions from the organizations and assist in the development of Urhobo land.
The President-General of the Urhobo Progress Union, Olorogun Barr. Ese Gam Owe, also addressed the gathering, encouraging Urhobo sons and daughters to support Urhobo activities and attend the annual Urhobo National Conference.
He commended the URS for its contributions to flood victims and its efforts to address the Okuama community tragedy, which has seen the UPU take legal action against the Nigerian Army over the illegal invasion and killings in Ughelli South Local Government Area.
The event was attended by Urhobo traditional rulers and other distinguished figures, with several lectures delivered on topics such as “Urhobo Origin and Migration” by Professor Andrew Onoaware Edevbie and “Urhobo Cuisines and Marriage Rites” by Professor Rose Aziza.
Additionally, the president generals of the 24 kingdoms in Urhobo land provided insights into the unique cultures and traditions of their respective communities.
Chief Emma Avworo, Chairman of the organizing committee, noted that the URS’s efforts extend beyond cultural preservation to improving the socio-economic well-being of the Urhobo people through donations, awareness creation, and other initiatives.
The conference stressed the importance of unity and cooperation among Urhobo people to safeguard their heritage and secure a brighter future for the next generation.
