Nye-ishi Ele Upata Lowetu and the Nyudu Upata III, HM Dr. Felix Enene Otuwarikpo, on Sunday, February 7, 2026 hosted the Chairman of the Council of Ekpeye Clan Heads, HRH Nyudu Sir Nnodi Michael, Nyudu Akpana Upata, alongside other Council members across Ekpeye at his Udho Nyudu Upata in Edeoha, Ahoada East LGA, Rivers State.
Receiving the delegation, the Nye-ishi Ele Upata who holds the First Africa Church Award as the Worthy Son of South South (WSS), emphasized the need for unity among Ekpeye people as foundation for sustainable societal growth, stressing that development can only thrive where people see themselves as one, bound by shared heritage and collective responsibility.
He noted the need for Ekpeye people to realize that “we have a common origin. We should respect our culture and institutions, unity will continue to grow, and with unity comes development.”
The Nye-ishi Ele Upata Lowetu noted further that “Ekpeye’s strength lies when there is love, urging leaders and institutions to work together beyond myopic lines. We must consciously promote peace, stability, and development across our communities.”
Describing the meeting as very important, he advised them to “concentrate on serving the people where they are installed as traditional ruler. You must work with your people, and the immediate traditional ruler of your kingdom. That’s where your stool is domiciled”, he stressed.
He added that traditional institutions must continue to play their role in fostering harmony, reminding them that Ekpeye has “a very strong culture and heritage that we are all proud of.
It is by preserving these values and working together as one people that we will grow and fulfill its destiny,” he said.
He expressed confidence that Ekpeye traditional leadership would make the people proud if the needful is done, warning against reckless acts that tend to undermine other First Class stools.
Earlier, Nyudu Michael described the visit as unprecedented and expressed gratitude to the Upata Monarch for honouring them with his presence, commended him for his unwavering commitment to development in Upata land, and Ekpeye at large.
He said they were in the Palace not only as the cultural heart of the Upata people and symbol of unity, but to seek for recognition and induction as members of the Ahoada East and West LGAs Traditional Rulers Council.
Besides seeking for royal blessings and support, Nyudu Michael said the Council is set to work in synergy for the overall development of the Ekpeye Ethnic Nation. He concluded by praying for the continued peaceful reign of the Nye-ishi Ele Upata Lowetu Li Nyudu Upata and for sustained growth and development in Upata land.
