Ovwuvwe Festival Brings Celebration, Reflection to Oruarivie Abraka Kingdom -By Eghosa Collins Ameosa

Residents, indigenes and visitors came together to celebrate the 2026 Ovwuvwe Festival in Oruarivie Abraka Kingdom, Delta State, as the annual cultural event once again showcased the traditions and heritage of the Urhobo people.

The festival attracted a large crowd, with people gathering to witness various traditional activities, music, dancing and other cultural displays that have become a defining part of the celebration.

Among those in attendance was Moses Melody Oghenechoja, a 100-level Biology Education student, who said she decided to attend the festival simply because she wanted to experience it for herself. She went with a friend and described the atmosphere as lively from start to finish.

“It was full of vibe. The festival was fun and remarkable,” she said.

Oghenechoja said the moment that surprised her the most was seeing a fight break out in the presence of the king. Despite that, she believed this year’s celebration was calmer than previous editions she had heard about.

Although she enjoyed the experience, she advised anyone attending the festival for the first time to remain cautious because of the possibility of violence in some areas.

For Ekakitie Wisdom Ogenekevwe, an indigene of Erho in Oruarivie Abraka Kingdom, attending the Ovwuvwe Festival is a tradition that dates back to his childhood. He said he usually attends with members of his family because the celebration is an important part of their cultural identity.

“I was born here, so it’s my right to be there,” he said.

Ogenekevwe described this year’s edition as one of the most memorable he has witnessed. According to him, the atmosphere was lively, with members of different communities coming together to celebrate.

He explained that Ovwuvwe means “peace” or “calmness” in the Urhobo language and represents both a revered deity and an important aspect of the kingdom’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

One of the highlights of the celebration, he said, is the thanksgiving held after the festival, when communities gather to honour the king with gifts, prepare traditional meals and celebrate together.

Despite the excitement, Ogenekevwe said he witnessed several injuries around Campus One Junction, where some participants were involved in clashes with cutlasses. He noted that although the traditional ruler had reportedly advised people against carrying dangerous weapons, some participants still came to the festival armed.

He encouraged first-time visitors to remain vigilant and avoid situations that could expose them to danger.

While both attendees shared different experiences, they agreed that the Ovwuvwe Festival remains one of the most significant cultural celebrations in Oruarivie Abraka Kingdom. Their accounts highlight both the excitement surrounding the festival and the importance of ensuring that future celebrations remain safe while preserving the rich traditions that have been passed down through generations.