Ukpeliede
Local.
Ukpeliede | |
|---|---|
Town | |
| Country | Nigeria |
| State | Rivers State |
| Local Government Area | Ahoada West |
| Time zone | UTC+1 (WAT) |
Ukpeliede is a town located in the Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. It is one of the Ekpeye-speaking communities in the local government area. The town is known for its agricultural productivity, strong traditional leadership, and history of community-led development efforts.
History
Ukpeliede has a long-standing historical background among the Ekpeye people of Rivers State. Oral traditions trace its founding to early settlers in the Niger Delta region who sought fertile land and water resources.
In 2017, youths of Ukpeliede and neighbouring Engenni communities shut down the Oshie oil field operated by the Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) to protest neglect in water supply, road infrastructure, and education projects, alleging failure to fulfill the General Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU).[1]
In 2020, residents of Ukpeliede and Emezhi II protested again, demanding the restoration of electricity and full implementation of their 2008 MoU with NAOC.[2]
Geography
Ukpeliede lies in the tropical rainforest belt of southern Nigeria. The community shares boundaries with Idu-Ekpeye, Emezhi I, Emezhi II, Oshika, Akala-Olu and Okogbe. The area experiences high rainfall and fertile soil, making it suitable for farming and fishing. Seasonal flooding occasionally affects the community and neighboring towns, leading to temporary displacement of residents.
Economy
The economy of Ukpeliede is primarily based on subsistence farming, fishing, and small-scale trading. Major crops include cassava, yam, and plantain. The town also faces challenges associated with illegal crude oil refining within the region. In 2022, the Ahoada West Local Government destroyed 82 illegal refining sites in the area, including four camps located in Ukpeliede that harboured 28 illegal refining points.[3]
Culture
Ukpeliede is part of the Ekpeye ethnic group, whose people are known for their communal lifestyle, festivals, and cultural dances. The traditional leadership system is headed by a Paramount Ruler (Eze Nwe-Ula) who works with community chiefs and elders to maintain peace and order. The people of Ukpeliede also participate actively in regional Engenni cultural events.
Education
Ukpeliede hosts several educational institutions, including the State School I, State School II, Government Comprehensive Secondary School Ukpeliede and numerous private institutions. In 2024, the MTN Foundation supported the construction and installation of the school’s solar inverter system as part of its community development initiative.[4]
People
Ukpeliede is one of the settlements of the Ekpeye people of Ahoada West LGA. The Ekpeye are predominantly farmers, fishermen, and hunters, and are known for their peaceful coexistence and hospitality.[5]
Infrastructure and Development
The town has seen gradual infrastructural development in recent years, with improvements in solar power, local road projects, and educational facilities. Community organizations and external partners have contributed to enhancing the town’s social and economic well-being.
Notable People
- [1] Late Sir Lawson Ihuowo
- [2] High Chief Alabo Ihuowo
- [3] Late Chief Friday Murphy
- [4] Chief (Hon.) Joy Alabo
- [5] Mr. & Mrs. Joel S. Obu
- [6] Late Mrs. Lendy O. Miller
References
This article "Ukpeliede" is from Wikipedia. The list of its authors can be seen in its historical and/or the page Edithistory:Ukpeliede. Articles copied from Draft Namespace on Wikipedia could be seen on the Draft Namespace of Wikipedia and not main one.
- ↑ Ekpo, Andy (19 September 2017). "Communities Shut Agip Facilities Over Neglect". Independent Nigeria. Retrieved 14 October 2025.
- ↑ "Rivers communities in showdown with NAOC over alleged neglect". Vanguard News. 9 December 2020. Retrieved 14 October 2025.
- ↑ "Rivers govt destroys 82 illegal crude oil refining sites". Nature News Africa. 1 February 2022. Retrieved 14 October 2025.
- ↑ "MTN Foundation Supports Solar Power Projects in Rivers State Schools". MTN Foundation Nigeria. Retrieved 14 October 2025.
- ↑ "Ekpeye people". Wikipedia. Retrieved 14 October 2025.
