The Ancient Olomu Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State is in mourning following the passing of its revered monarch, His Royal Majesty, Ovie Macaulay Popo Ovbagbedia, JP, Uhurhie-Osadjere II, the Ohworode of Olomu.
The solemn news of the king’s transition was formally delivered at the royal palace in Ovwor-Olomu by the Otota (traditional spokesperson) of the kingdom, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN).
He was flanked by members of the Olomu Traditional Council of Chiefs and relatives of the departed monarch during the announcement.
Traditional rites were observed to honor the monarch’s journey to the ancestral realm.
These included a performance by the revered Ema dancers and the firing of 21 ceremonial cannon shots, an age-old tradition signifying the ruler’s final departure.
In line with the customs of the Olomu people, a mourning period has been declared.
All markets within the kingdom will be closed, and no burial or marriage ceremonies will take place during this time.
However, shops may conduct limited commercial activity.
The mourning period spans from July 12 to August 12, 2025. Throughout this time, Olomu chiefs are mandated to wear black armbands on their left arms and to forgo the traditional red Olomu Chieftaincy cap as a mark of respect for their late sovereign.
A five-minute silence was also observed in memory of the Ohworode, who ascended the throne on May 20, 2023.
