Formation Of Iyede College Of Chiefs Signals Return To Unity, Says Okpobor

By Evelyn Obibi-Assay

The Executive Director, Finance and Administration on the Board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Chief Oghenekome Reginald Okpobor, FIMC, FHR, has hailed the formation of the Iyede College of Chiefs as a significant step toward rebuilding the community and restoring its unity and dignity.

He made this known on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at his office in the Commission’s Headquarters when he played host to the College of Chiefs and Fellows of Iyede on a courtesy visit focused on peacebuilding, dialogue and resolution of community issues.

The delegation said the visit was aimed at fostering unity and addressing issues affecting the community through dialogue and collective engagement.

Speaking during the visit, Chief Okpobor described the initiative as timely and necessary for the progress of Iyede. He said the wisdom and sense of responsibility demonstrated by the elders would contribute greatly to the development of the community.

“I am particularly encouraged by the coming together of our elders under this platform. Their mandate to promote dialogue, resolve issues and deescalate conflicts is not only timely but necessary. I am proud of them and I will continue to support this noble initiative,” he said.

Chief Okpobor further observed that although Iyede had not yet attained its desired position politically and traditionally, the community was gradually regaining its rightful place.

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“We may not yet be where we ought to be politically and traditionally, but I believe we are steadily finding our way back. We are rebuilding our unity, reclaiming our relevance and restoring the status and dignity we once lost. The journey has begun, and with unity, wisdom and collective commitment, Iyede will rise again,” he said.

He assured the College of Chiefs of his continued support and partnership, stressing that peace, unity and responsible leadership remain essential to sustainable community development.

“I do not take your confidence and goodwill for granted. Your visit is an honour, and I am committed to working with you to build a more peaceful, united and progressive Iyede,” he added.

The College of Chiefs and Fellows, the first of such bodies constituted in Iyede, is empowered to promote unity, address emerging concerns, and help deescalate conflicts within the community through dialogue and collective responsibility.

Those present during the visit were Chief Dr. MacCarthy Mukoroc, Chief Victor Edeta, Chief Ovie Oghenehwede, Idogho O. David, Mrs. Elizabeth Okpako, Akpebe Ufiobor, Okere Akpos Elijah, Moses Ukpe and Udjokpa Jacob.