Leaders of Udu Kingdom, have announced the transition of their traditional, HRM Barr. Emmanuel Bethel Otete Delekpe, Owhorhu I, in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State.
Announcing the transition the Royal Monarch, at the conference of of Udu Palace, the Otota of Udu Kingdom, Chief Sam Esiko Odibo JP said, “It is with heart filled with profound sadness but with gratitude to God for a glorious reign that we announce the journey of our revered monarch, Barrister Emmanuel Bethel Otete Delekpe to be with his ancestors.
“He commenced this journey of no return at 86 years on Monday the 12th of February, 2025 at 3.05 pm when he breathed his last.”
According to Chief Odibo, “The traditional ruler was our first king, he was crowned in May 20, 1994 and he was a symbol of our cultural heritage whose reign brought development, peace and unity in his 30 years of reign.
“As a mark of honour for our departed king, it is here by declared throughout the length and breadth of the kingdom, a 9-day mourning period effective from April 17 to 25 , 2025
“During this period, there shall be no social gatherings, burials, marriages or any celebration that require the playing of loud music as there shall be closure of markets and shops throughout Udu from Saturday 19 to Friday 24 of April, 2025 between the hours of 6:am to 6:pm.
“We trust that as usual, all our lovely and compliant indigenes and those who dwell with us will respect our sensibilities and adhered strictly to these activities and others that would be announced.by joining us in paying our last respect to our departed king.
“The council of Chiefs and the Royal family are currently making arrangements for the final rites of passage of our king which will be announced in due course.”
The announcement was marked with 21 cannon shots at the palace grounds in Otor-Udu community.
