Omene Challenges Kings, Insists Chiefs’ Union Stands Firm

Chief Joe Omene, former President General of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) and now leader of the Traditional Chiefs of Urhoboland Association (TCULA), has rejected the recent directive from Urhobo monarchs banning rival chief associations.

His words were uncompromising: “We will still exist. Nobody can dissolve us.”

Omene described the communiqué as nothing new, accusing the royal council of resisting every effort that strengthens unity or dignity in Urhoboland.

“They have always opposed what brings honour and healthy relationships. Frankly, they have nothing else to do,” he said, dismissing the move as misplaced.

He argued that chiefs were being unfairly singled out.

“In Urhoboland, we have 24 kingdoms and 24 kings. They all have their association. There is also an Association of President Generals, and nobody banned that. Why then target the chiefs?” he asked pointedly.

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Drawing on history, Omene recalled how UPU itself faced opposition from the kings at its founding.

“When Mukoro Mowoe established UPU, they fought against it. Yet it survived almost a century. Ironically, the same UPU they tried to kill is now the one they want to weaken. They have nearly destroyed it already,” he said.

He accused the monarchs of craving absolute control, citing their walkout at the last UPU congress over plastic chairs.

“If they do not dictate who becomes President General, nobody is allowed to contest honourably. That is their style,” he noted.

Omene stressed that TCULA is legally recognised and beyond the reach of royal decrees.

“Our association is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission. Government is fully aware of its existence. They do not even have the right to de-robe any chief. Only the state government has that power,” he warned, promising legal action against any unlawful pronouncement.

Beyond the dispute, Omene faulted the monarchs for silence during crises, from Okuama detentions to killings in Warri.

He praised the Owhorode of Olomu as “learned and well-versed” but dismissed most others as ill-informed.

To his members, his message was steady: “We are ready. If kings can have their association, and President Generals can have theirs, why can’t chiefs? This is about rights, law, and dignity.”