Breaking News: Ugbajo Itsekiri USA and Other Groups Banned from Paying Homage at the Palace

In a historic directive, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, has announced that Ugbajo Itsekiri USA and other fragmented Itsekiri groups in the United States will no longer be permitted to pay homage at the Palace unless reconciliation is achieved. The announcement was delivered by Chief Fred Edegbele, the senior Itsekiri Chief in the United States, during a meeting held on January 19, 2025, via Zoom. He was joined by Chief Emmanuel Ejutse and Chief Josephine Onemu, who represented His Majesty in conveying this critical message.

Our team reviewed minutes of the meeting presented to us, which included details about the participants and the discussions that took place. According to the minutes, the meeting was attended by Mr. Jemine Okotie Yesin, President of Ugbajo Itsekiri USA, representing his group, and Mr. Otse Amorighoye, President of another group, representing his organization. Their participation highlighted the gravity of the directive and the importance of reconciliation within the diaspora.

This directive reflects His Majesty’s deep concern about divisions within the diaspora and emphasizes that reconciliation is the only acceptable path forward for re-engagement with the Palace.

Ogiame’s Message: Reconciliation as the Path Forward

During the meeting, Chief Fred Edegbele, supported by Chief Emmanuel Ejutse and Chief Josephine Onemu, conveyed His Majesty’s message with clarity and urgency. Chief Edegbele stated:
“Ogiame has made it clear that he is deeply upset by the current split and has emphasized the importance of unity among us. He does not support multiple versions of Itsekiri gatherings and has urged us to reconcile our differences as one unified body. Furthermore, His Majesty has stated that if reconciliation cannot be achieved, no member of any USA Itsekiri groupings will be permitted to pay homage during any upcoming anniversary celebrations. This is a matter of great importance.”
The message underscores that reconciliation is not merely a suggestion but a necessity for re-engagement with the Palace and the broader Itsekiri nation.

Revealing Ogiame’s Concerns
As part of his delivery, Chief Fred Edegbele revealed that His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III had visited the United States on multiple occasions without formally engaging with the diaspora. This disclosure reflects His Majesty’s disappointment with the divisions that have fractured the community and weakened its ability to operate as a unified body.

The chiefs collectively emphasized that reconciliation is critical not just for the present but for preserving the legacy and dignity of the Itsekiri people. Their message highlighted the urgency of addressing these divisions and restoring harmony within the diaspora.

Implications of the Directive
His Majesty’s directive places all U.S.-based Itsekiri organizations under scrutiny, banning fragmented groups from paying homage until reconciliation is achieved. This decision underscores the critical importance of reconciliation in preserving the credibility and dignity of the diaspora.
The directive also challenges leaders to move beyond the disputes that have hindered progress and to work toward restoring the diaspora’s collective voice. His Majesty’s disappointment with the lack of engagement during his past visits to the U.S. serves as a stark reminder of the urgency of addressing these divisions.

Next Steps for the Diaspora
The directive places the diaspora at a crossroads. To regain recognition and the privilege of paying homage at the Palace, U.S.-based Itsekiri organizations must:
1. Engage in meaningful reconciliation: Address past divisions and create a framework for dialogue and collaboration.
2. Rebuild trust among stakeholders: Prioritize transparency and accountability to foster harmony and credibility.
3. Commit to progress: Focus on actions that demonstrate a commitment to serving the Itsekiri people and advancing the collective good of the diaspora.

Conclusion: Reconciliation is the Only Path Forward
His Majesty’s directive is a defining moment for the Itsekiri diaspora. It challenges leaders to address the divisions of the past while creating a future rooted in reconciliation and collaboration.
While the journey toward reconciliation may be challenging, it is also an opportunity to build a stronger, more united diaspora that reflects the dignity and values of the Itsekiri nation.
Further updates and developments are expected as leaders and stakeholders respond to this historic directive and work to align with Ogiame’s vision for reconciliation and progress.