The first-most-ranking elder in Okponha Community, Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State, Pa. Ehigie David Okundia, has been installed as the Odionwere of the Community, marking the beginning of a new era.
His installation followed the approval by Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, was conveyed through Chief Oghafua Oyeoba, the Oyeoba of Benin and Chief Uyi Okungbowa, now known as the Obaguehidase of Benin during the previous meeting with elders of Okponha at Oba Palace in Benin City.
In obedience to the directive of Oba Ewuare to elders and the people of the Community, installed Pa. Okundia ― on Thursday January 15th 2026 when he performed the traditional rites in Benin tradition at their Ogua’edion known as elders Chamber where prayers were offered by the elders.
During the ceremony, the newly appointed Odionwere of Okponha Community,
Pa. Ehigie David Okundia
and the Okaighele of the Community, Charles Aibangbee Aivihenyor, promised to work in harmony with the people and pledged their loyalty to the Oba of Benin.
The Odionwere and the Okaighele also promised to work for the overall development of the Community without discrimination.
Elders of Okponha Community, Wilfred Osasere Ojo, Anthony Osasere and Alex Ovenseri, described the royal recognition accorded the Odionwere by the Oba of Benin as a new dawn, while pledging to support the leadership for the overall development of the area.
