The Uvwie General Improvement Union (UGIU) has issued a stern warning to what it describes as misguided Itsekiri individuals against actions capable of sowing discord, emphasizing that the peaceful disposition of the Uvwie people must not be mistaken for weakness. "The Uvwie Kingdom is not afraid, and will never be afraid, to defend its territory, heritage, and people," the union declared.
Press Conference in Effurun
Speaking at a world press conference in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State on April 24, 2026, the UGIU President-General, Chief Hope Erute, stated that the union's attention had been drawn to what he described as "fallacious and provocative claims" alleging that the Itsekiris founded several communities in Uvwie. He listed the communities as Ugbenuowhoru (referred to by some Itsekiris as Ukpolokposo), Okwatata, Iteregbi, and Ugbomro.
"It is reported that at a recent cultural festival of the Itsekiri nation, a spokesperson presented a narrative claiming that these communities were founded by the Itsekiris," he said. Erute noted that while the Uvwie people typically avoid responding to what he termed "delusional folklore," the persistence of such claims necessitated a response. "Silence in the face of repeated falsehoods can be mistaken for consent. Therefore, we are compelled to set the record straight with verifiable facts," he added.
Historical and Legal Perspectives
He proceeded to outline historical and legal perspectives, alleging that past legal disputes over the communities were largely inconclusive and accusing some individuals of attempting to secure favorable judgments to support their claims. According to him, historical records show that the Itsekiris were largely migrant settlers in riverine areas and not aboriginal inhabitants of the hinterland communities in question.
Erute also referenced genealogical narratives, arguing that even accounts presented by Itsekiri sources indicate that certain figures, including Prince Udefi, settled in already established Uvwie communities through maternal lineage connections. "By their own account, Udefi came to a place that already had Uvwie roots. He was received, not a founder," he stated. He emphasized that the Uvwie people remain committed to peaceful coexistence but would rely on "truth, evidence, and historical records" to defend their identity and land.
Specific Community Origins
Providing further historical context, Erute said Ugbenuowhoru originated as a settlement granted by the Erovie people of Uvwie to maternal relations of Itsekiri descent, while Ugbomro was founded by Uwherume of the Abadi family in Uvwie. "There is no indigenous Itsekiri family or compound in Ugbomro," he claimed. He also cited historical accounts involving the late King Nana of Itsekiri, noting his maternal ties to Uvwie and recounting episodes during the British colonial era, including the burning of parts of Effurun.
Erute further referenced historical developments in Itsekiri leadership structures and territorial influence, arguing that such arrangements did not extend to certain Uvwie territories. He recalled that during tensions following the 1952 change of title from Olu of Itsekiri to Olu of Warri, Uvwie people protected Itsekiri settlers in Ugbenuowhoru rather than expelling them. "It is ironic that those once protected now lay claim to lands that are not theirs," he said.
Call for Peace and Government Intervention
While reaffirming longstanding ties between both groups, including intermarriage and economic cooperation, Erute warned that what he described as "provocative and revisionist narratives" would not be tolerated. "We demand an immediate cease and desist from such claims," he said. He urged individuals allegedly promoting such narratives to prioritize peace and development rather than stoking tension. "Do not create artificial crises where none exists. Focus on the development of your communities rather than laying claim to the ancestral lands of others," he added.
Erute reaffirmed that Ugbomro, Okwatata, Iteregbi, and Ugbenuowhoru remain integral parts of Uvwie Kingdom, noting that while some residents may have Itsekiri paternal ancestry, they are regarded as maternal relations under the authority of the Ovie of Uvwie. He concluded by calling on the Delta State Government and security agencies to intervene. "We urge the government and relevant security agencies to take note of these inciting claims and call those responsible to order before they threaten the existing peace in the region," he said.
