Happy TravellerWelcome to Ughelli, a town located in Delta State, Nigeria and one of the 24 kingdoms that make up the Urhobo Nation. This city is indigenous to the Urhobo ethnic nationals, but there is a mixture of several other tribes from the country, such as the Igbos, Edos and others. Ughelli is an industrial and agricultural spot of Delta State, and is in a central location in Delta State, making it a major town for the Urhobo Tribe, also one of the oldest kingdoms in Delta State tracing back to the 14th and 15th century. The city of Ughelli is ruled by a traditional ruler which is known as Ovie, and is passed from father to son. The current king is His Royal Majesty, Oharisi III who lives in the Ovie Palace situated at Otovwodo-Ughelli.
Ughelli has a rich history, with oral tradition stating that the great ancestor and founding father of Ughelli (Ughene), is the second son of Oghwoghwa (a Prince from Benin Kingdom). As history has it, Oghwoghwa in search of his own kingdom first settlement was at Tarakiri and later left for Oviri Ogor (current site of Ogor Techinal College). Ughene later left Oviri Ogor and founded Ovwodoawanre (Old Settlement), before the present settlement headquarters at Otovwodo (traditional headquarters).
Ughelli is organized as a local government area (LGA) with a Chairman elected by the people and Councilors representing wards. It has various departments overseeing functions such as finance, health, education, agriculture, and works, headed by departmental heads. Traditional institutions, including traditional rulers and chiefs, also play a role in local governance. Committees may be formed to handle specific tasks. Ughelli’s organization is governed by the Nigerian constitution and local government laws, following a multi-tiered system of government with federal, state, and local levels of administration.
Ughelli is located in close proximity to the floodplains of the West Niger Delta river, and is surrounded by neighboring communities and villages. Among these are Agbara-Otor, Agbaro, Ufuoma, Otokutu, Ogor, each contributing to the town’s rich cultural tapestry. The city has crude oil and gas reserves hence the presence of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC). Ughelli town is the administrative headquarters of Ughelli North Local Government Area.
Ughelli has several schools, a general hospital, and a local government secretariat. The city is a link between Delta North and Delta South. If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, Ughelli is the perfect destination for you. Come and explore the rich history and vibrant culture of this charming town.
