Goat are not wildlife animal, they kept indoor. A child who refused to learn is lost in his father’s backyard. This are the same set of persons whom our for- father’s bought as slaves in those days, and when they were given freedom they do not know where to go. Sorry son we can show you where your slave parents came from. Ameh ituo- Okpe rhi itui siehor ooo
*A Correctional Statement on the Controversy Surrounding the Identity of Okpe*:
*Is Okpe Urhobo or a Distinct Ethnic Nationality?*
I wish to sincerely appreciate every individual who has, in one way or the other, contributed their opinion on the ongoing discourse regarding the true identity of the Okpe people. This matter is not just a debate of semantics; it is a vital discussion about our heritage, our future, and the rightful place of Okpe in the comity of ethnic nationalities.
First, let us return to the root of history. Okpe, originally, was a man who migrated from the ancient Benin Kingdom. He founded Okpe Olomu, and from there, his descendants spread further, establishing what later became known as Okpe-Isoko. From this expansion, his children—Orhue, Evwreke, Orhoho, and Esezi—rose to become the co-founders of Orerokpe, which today stands as the headquarters of the present Okpe Kingdom. This historical foundation is crucial because it demonstrates that Okpe existed long before colonial administrative structures began their process of grouping and re-grouping different peoples for political convenience.
The current placement of Okpe under the Urhobo ethnic umbrella is largely the result of colonial and political classifications. In the same way, the Isoko people were once grouped with Urhobo. However, recognizing their unique origin, history, and identity, the Isoko people demanded—and were granted—separate recognition as a distinct ethnic nationality. Today, no one dares to say Isoko is Urhobo. Their assertion of independence has given them a clear voice, a distinct identity, and the benefits that come with ethnic recognition.
Therefore, when some say “Okpe is Urhobo,” they are not entirely wrong in terms of administrative placement, since Okpe is counted among the twenty-four kingdoms grouped under the Urhobo ethnic nationality. That, however, does not erase the fact that those who say “Okpe is Okpe” are equally correct. In fact, such individuals are visionaries who understand the importance of ethnic independence and who, like our Isoko brethren, believe it is time for Okpe to stand on its own as a distinct and recognized nationality.
An adage reminds us: It is good to be a child, but it is bad to remain a child forever. This is the very philosophy driving the agitation for the recognition of Okpe as a separate nationality. If Isoko could achieve this status, why not Okpe? What makes us lesser? What prevents us from taking the bold step to claim what history, culture, and identity have already bestowed upon us?
The benefits of being recognized as a distinct nationality far outweigh the disadvantages. Politically, socially, culturally, and even economically, Okpe would gain a stronger and clearer voice. We have nothing to lose, but everything to gain, if we pursue this path.
Therefore, I call on all true sons and daughters of Okpe—whether in government, politics, traditional councils, or religious circles—to put aside selfish interests and rally behind this noble cause. History teaches us that nothing of value is given freely; it must be fought for. Nigeria was fought for. Delta State was fought for. Our two local government areas were fought for. Likewise, the recognition of Okpe as a distinct nationality must also be fought for with unity, determination, and sacrifice.
To those who oppose or sabotage this movement, I urge you to pause and reflect. Consider the long-term benefits of being called a distinct nationality. True peace and pride will only come when we accept and pursue our authentic identity.
In conclusion, let it be clearly understood: we are Okpe, not by accident, but by heritage, history, and divine providence. Our mandate is to assert, preserve, and promote our unique identity until Okpe is officially recognized as a distinct ethnic nationality. This is not merely an agitation—it is a just cause, and together, we shall prevail.
Goat are not wildlife animal, they kept indoor. A child who refused to learn is lost in his father’s backyard. This are the same set of persons whom our for- father’s bought as slaves in those days, and when they were given freedom they do not know where to go. Sorry son we can show you where your slave parents came from. Ameh ituo- Okpe rhi itui siehor ooo
*ATTENTION PLEASE*
*To Whom It May Concern*
*A Correctional Statement on the Controversy Surrounding the Identity of Okpe*:
*Is Okpe Urhobo or a Distinct Ethnic Nationality?*
I wish to sincerely appreciate every individual who has, in one way or the other, contributed their opinion on the ongoing discourse regarding the true identity of the Okpe people. This matter is not just a debate of semantics; it is a vital discussion about our heritage, our future, and the rightful place of Okpe in the comity of ethnic nationalities.
First, let us return to the root of history. Okpe, originally, was a man who migrated from the ancient Benin Kingdom. He founded Okpe Olomu, and from there, his descendants spread further, establishing what later became known as Okpe-Isoko. From this expansion, his children—Orhue, Evwreke, Orhoho, and Esezi—rose to become the co-founders of Orerokpe, which today stands as the headquarters of the present Okpe Kingdom. This historical foundation is crucial because it demonstrates that Okpe existed long before colonial administrative structures began their process of grouping and re-grouping different peoples for political convenience.
The current placement of Okpe under the Urhobo ethnic umbrella is largely the result of colonial and political classifications. In the same way, the Isoko people were once grouped with Urhobo. However, recognizing their unique origin, history, and identity, the Isoko people demanded—and were granted—separate recognition as a distinct ethnic nationality. Today, no one dares to say Isoko is Urhobo. Their assertion of independence has given them a clear voice, a distinct identity, and the benefits that come with ethnic recognition.
Therefore, when some say “Okpe is Urhobo,” they are not entirely wrong in terms of administrative placement, since Okpe is counted among the twenty-four kingdoms grouped under the Urhobo ethnic nationality. That, however, does not erase the fact that those who say “Okpe is Okpe” are equally correct. In fact, such individuals are visionaries who understand the importance of ethnic independence and who, like our Isoko brethren, believe it is time for Okpe to stand on its own as a distinct and recognized nationality.
An adage reminds us: It is good to be a child, but it is bad to remain a child forever. This is the very philosophy driving the agitation for the recognition of Okpe as a separate nationality. If Isoko could achieve this status, why not Okpe? What makes us lesser? What prevents us from taking the bold step to claim what history, culture, and identity have already bestowed upon us?
The benefits of being recognized as a distinct nationality far outweigh the disadvantages. Politically, socially, culturally, and even economically, Okpe would gain a stronger and clearer voice. We have nothing to lose, but everything to gain, if we pursue this path.
Therefore, I call on all true sons and daughters of Okpe—whether in government, politics, traditional councils, or religious circles—to put aside selfish interests and rally behind this noble cause. History teaches us that nothing of value is given freely; it must be fought for. Nigeria was fought for. Delta State was fought for. Our two local government areas were fought for. Likewise, the recognition of Okpe as a distinct nationality must also be fought for with unity, determination, and sacrifice.
To those who oppose or sabotage this movement, I urge you to pause and reflect. Consider the long-term benefits of being called a distinct nationality. True peace and pride will only come when we accept and pursue our authentic identity.
In conclusion, let it be clearly understood: we are Okpe, not by accident, but by heritage, history, and divine providence. Our mandate is to assert, preserve, and promote our unique identity until Okpe is officially recognized as a distinct ethnic nationality. This is not merely an agitation—it is a just cause, and together, we shall prevail.
Thank you for your kind attention.
*Yours sincerely,*
Pastor Christian Itoje Ovie