The people of Udu Kingdom have been thrown into mourning following the passing of their revered monarch, His Royal Majesty, (Barr.) Emmanuel Bethel Otete Delekpe, Owhorhu I, Ovie of Udu Kingdom, who joined his ancestors on February 24, 2025, at the age of 86 after 31 years on the throne.
The announcement of his passage was formally made by the Otota of Udu Kingdom, High Chief (Sir) Samuelson Esikomunu Odibo, on behalf of the Udu Council of Chiefs, in a press conference on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at Udu Kingdom Palace at Otor-Udu, Udu local government area of Delta State.
According to Chief Odibo, the late monarch, who ascended the throne on May 20, 1994, was the first crowned king of Udu Kingdom.
“His reign, which spanned an impressive 31 years, was marked by peace, unity, and significant developmental strides — including the creation of Udu as a Local Government Area. HRM Delekpe passed on to the great beyond on February 24, 2025, at the age of 86.”
In honour of the late king’s remarkable life and legacy, the Udu Council of Chiefs has declared a 9-day mourning period across the kingdom, beginning Thursday, April 17, and ending Friday, April 25, 2025.
