The Etche Ethnic Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers and Chiefs has suspended traditional festivals, chieftaincy coronations and installation ceremonies across Etcheland following the death of the community’s revered traditional ruler and patriarch, Ochie ENB Opurum.
The council announced the suspension in a proclamation dated September 16, 2026, signed by HRH Eze Dr Ken O. Nwala, Ugo 1 of Etcheland and Onye Ishi Agwuru III of Ulakwo Umuselem, on behalf of the Etche Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers and Chiefs.
The council described the passing of Ochie Opurum as the beginning of a “transfiguration and transformational journey” for the late monarch and called on the people of Etcheland to honour his memory by observing the mourning period in accordance with the customs and traditions of the land.
Etche Festivals SuspendedAccording to the proclamation, all traditional and cultural festivals and ceremonies across Etcheland have been suspended until the next season.
The suspended activities include wrestling festivals, New Yam festivals and other traditional cultural celebrations.The council also announced the suspension of all chieftaincy coronations and installation ceremonies until the conclusion of the mourning and transition period for the late monarch.
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Flags to Fly at Half-MastAs part of the mourning observances, the council directed that flags across Etcheland should fly at half-mast throughout the period.It further stated that the traditional market days of Eke, Nkwo, Afor and Orie would observe customary rites in honour of Ochie Opurum every market day for 90 market days.
The rites are part of the traditional observances marking the transition of the late monarch.Council Pays Tribute to Ochie OpurumIn the proclamation, Eze Nwala described Ochie Opurum as a great patriarch, legend and “father of modern Rivers State,” as well as a father of kings and an enduring father of Etcheland.
The council called on Etche sons and daughters to honour the late monarch’s memory and celebrate his contributions to the people while observing the traditional rites associated with his transition.
It also urged residents and citizens of Etcheland to remain peaceful and orderly and to respect the customs and traditions of the community during and after the mourning period.
Clan Heads Charged With Upholding UnityThe council further directed the six clan heads of Etcheland and their respective chiefs to continue upholding the principles of justice, equity and fairness in their leadership roles.
According to the proclamation, the principles are essential to promoting unity, peace and love across Etcheland during the period of mourning and beyond.Eze Nwala also prayed that the late Ochie Opurum would continue to guide the people and that his legacy of justice, peace and unity would endure.
The suspension of festivals and chieftaincy ceremonies marks a significant period of traditional mourning in Etcheland as the community prepares to honour the late monarch and observe the customary rites associated with his transition.
