By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
The ancient Oko Kingdom in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State was agog with celebration as the people of the kingdom, on Monday, 29 December, 2025, conferred the revered chieftaincy title of Ebubedike I of Oko Kingdom on Chief (Engr.) Ogochukwu Olisa, a renowned philanthropist from Umu Oko, Oko Ogbele.
The Ebubedike title, which translates to “the pride of a strong man” or “the pride of a lion,” is one of the most prestigious traditional honours in Oko Kingdom. It is reserved strictly for individuals of proven courage, integrity and outstanding service to humanity. Notably, the title is the first of its kind in the kingdom, as there is currently no other Ebubedike in Oko Kingdom.
The traditional rites was performed by His Highness, Onishe (Dr.) Benjamin Nnabundo Anwasia, JP, the Okakwu of Umu Oko at the presence of Community Leaders
Speaking with journalists during the colourful ceremony, Chief Olisa described the honour as historic and deeply humbling.
“This title is a great honour. It is the first of its kind in Oko Kingdom. Ebubedike means the pride of a strong man or the pride of a lion. It is not a title bestowed on just anyone,” he said.
He attributed the conferment of the title to his contributions to community development and service to humanity, noting that the recognition would further inspire him to do more for his people.
“This honour will spur me to do more for my community and help take Oko Kingdom to greater heights,” he added.
Chief Olisa emphasized the critical role of traditional title holders as community leaders and intermediaries between the people and government.
“Traditional rulers and title holders are leaders. We lead the people, we listen to them, we hear their agitations and aspirations, and we relay these to the government. We also promote peace in our kingdom. We are in a position of trust and reliability, and we cannot fail our people, the government or the nation at large,” he stated.
While commending the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his developmental strides, particularly in road infrastructure, the newly installed Ebubedike appealed for the completion of the ongoing road project linking the area.
“The governor has done so much for the state. About 30 to 40 percent of the road to my place has been completed, and we sincerely appreciate him. However, the journey from Asaba to this place should take about 15 minutes, but it currently takes nearly two hours because of the poor road,” he lamented.
He explained that completing the road would significantly boost economic activities, allowing residents to live in Oko and conveniently work in Asaba, similar to commuters from nearby communities.
“After my village, the next communities lead to Ndokwa. This road is very important to us. We appeal to His Excellency to use his good office to complete what he has started. If not for him, we would not have reached this level of progress,” Chief Olisa said appreciatively.
The ceremony was a grand cultural spectacle, featuring vibrant traditional dance displays and rich cultural performances. It attracted a wide array of dignitaries, including politicians, engineers from the oil and gas sector, traditional title holders from Oko Kingdom and neighbouring Asaba.
Also in attendance were members of the Hussey College, Warri Alumni Association, led by Mrs. Gladys Grant Omokhudu, a Deputy Director at the National Orientation Agency, alongside journalists who covered the historic event.
The conferment of the Ebubedike title on Chief (Engr.) Ogochukwu Olisa stands as a testament to his enduring legacy of service, leadership and commitment to the development of Oko Kingdom and humanity at large.