The Ny’údū Úpátá, Dr Felix Enene Otuwarikpo, has called on traditional rulers across Ekpeye communities to unite and promote genuine peace, reconciliation and development in the Ekpeye Ethnic Nation.
Otuwarikpo made the call on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, when he, alongside members of the Úpátá Traditional Council (UTC), received the Ekpeye Peace and Reconciliation Committee at his palace.
The monarch stressed that peace agreements must be backed by genuine commitment from all parties, rather than superficial arrangements.
He said the people of Úpátá Kingdom remained open to dialogue and other genuine efforts aimed at resolving disputes and restoring lasting peace in Ekpeyeland.
Expressing concern over prevailing issues in the area, Otuwarikpo urged the committee, led by HRH Ny’údū Sir Nnodi Michael, Ny’údū Äkpáñá Úpátá I, to promote mutual understanding, respect and unity without bias.
Earlier, Ny’údū Michael expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded the committee, saying its members were at the palace to brief the monarch on their readiness to address conflicts within the Ekpeye traditional institution.
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The monarch also received Professor Solomon Ikunga, a veteran historian, who, alongside Chief Nkechi Anyike, is working on a history book titled “Úpátá-Odegu: From Origins to the Present.”
Also at the palace was a delegation from Ulá Úpátá Community, led by Elder Okpara Benson, Secretary of the Elders Council.
The visit led to the formation and inauguration of the 2026 Úpátá Folklore Night Committee.
Other groups received by the monarch included members of the 2026 Úpátá Unity Football Cup and the Ekpeye Heritage and Development Initiative (EHCDI).
Otuwarikpo further described the traditional institution as a vital grassroots partner in resolving communal conflicts, promoting peace and maintaining stability.
