By Asakpa Ibobo
The Odion r’Ode-in-Council Chiefs of Uwheru Kingdom have congratulated His Royal Majesty, Ajuwe Simpson Sapele Obruche (ACG), Obruche 11, Odion r’Ode of Uwheru Kingdom, on the third anniversary of the official presentation of his Staff of Office, describing his reign as one marked by visionary leadership, cultural renaissance and an unwavering commitment to the unity, peace and development of the kingdom.
The Council, in a congratulatory message signed by its Chairman, Chief Tom Iniwheri, PhD, said the anniversary marks three years of purposeful, peaceful and people-centred traditional leadership under the revered monarch, who is also the oldest living monarch in Urhoboland.
According to the Council, the reign of King Obruche 11 has continued to exemplify dignity, wisdom, humility and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people of Uwheru Kingdom.
It stated that the monarch has remained a steadfast advocate of the kingdom’s cultural heritage, moral values and traditional institutions while promoting social harmony, peaceful coexistence and initiatives aimed at accelerating the optimum growth and sustainable development of Uwheru Kingdom.
The Council further commended His Royal Majesty’s passion for preserving the customs and traditions of Uwheru Kingdom, strengthening community institutions and providing fatherly leadership that continues to inspire hope, confidence and unity among the people.
It prayed that Almighty God would continue to bless the monarch with sound health, divine wisdom, strength and peace as he continues to render exemplary service to the throne and the people of Uwheru Kingdom.
Meanwhile, the Palace and the Odion r’Ode-in-Council Chiefs have explained that this year’s anniversary was deliberately observed without the usual fanfare and elaborate public festivities as a mark of honour for the late Rt. Rev. Vincent Omasheho Muoghereh, the first Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Ughelli and an illustrious son of the Uwheru Kingdom.
In a separate press statement, also signed by Chief Iniwheri, the Palace said the decision followed the burial of the renowned cleric on Thursday, July 2, 2026, noting that it was considered appropriate to observe the anniversary quietly in recognition of his immense contributions to the Church, Uwheru Kingdom and humanity.
The statement described Bishop Muoghereh as a trusted friend of the Palace and a close confidant of His Royal Majesty, whose lifetime was devoted to the service of God and humanity. It added that his wise counsel, encouragement and generous support had always been available whenever the Kingdom sought pathways to peace, unity and sustainable development.
According to the Palace, had the late Bishop been alive, he would undoubtedly have played a leading role in commemorating the monarch’s third anniversary, offering invaluable advice, mobilising support and deploying his influence and resources to ensure a memorable celebration while continuing to champion initiatives that fostered reconciliation, unity and progress within Uwheru Kingdom.
The Palace noted that Bishop Muoghereh’s passing had created a profound vacuum that is deeply felt not only by the Palace but by the entire kingdom, making it fitting that the anniversary be observed with dignity, reflection and thanksgiving rather than elaborate celebration.
It, however, stressed that the subdued observance in no way diminishes the significance of the milestone, stating that the Palace remains grateful to Almighty God for preserving His Royal Majesty throughout the past three years and for the peace, stability and progress recorded during his reign.
The Palace reaffirmed its commitment to the ideals of justice, unity, cultural preservation and sustainable development for which King Obruche 11 has consistently stood, expressing confidence that the monarch will continue to provide purposeful leadership for the advancement of the Uwheru Kingdom.
It also paid glowing tribute to the late Bishop Muoghereh, describing his legacy of faith, humility, patriotism and selfless service as enduring and one that will continue to inspire present and future generations of Uwheru people.
The third anniversary of the official presentation of the Staff of Office marks another significant milestone in the reign of HRM Ajuwe Simpson Sapele Obruche (ACG), Obruche 11, whose leadership continues to attract commendation from traditional institutions, community stakeholders and sons and daughters of Uwheru Kingdom for its emphasis on peace, cultural identity, moral leadership and the overall development of the kingdom.
