A Professor of Law and former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, has been crowned the 14th Asagba of Asaba Kingdom, Delta State. His coronation took place on Saturday at the Asagba place in Asaba.
Azinge’s ascension to the throne was followed his emergence as Asagba of Asaba designate at an enlarged meeting of Asagba-In-Council and members of the kingdom after a selection process by the five quarters of the kingdom held on August 18, 2024.
The colourful ceremony was witnessed by a galaxy of personalities including the former Governor of the State, Chief James Ibori, former Senator representing Delta North Senatorial district, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, member representing Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency at the House of Representatives, Mr. Ngozi Okolie and other notable personalities in attendance.
Azinge was crowned by the Onihe of Asaba (the traditional chief priest of the kingdom) Chief Ubaka Attoh after the traditional staff of office and the keys of the Ogwu-Uku were handed over to him.
In his short speech, the Asagba paid glowing tribute to the departed 13th Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Chike Edozien, describing him as a father figure to him.
He promised to make justice and fairness the cornerstones of his leadership.
The royal father said: “On the 18th of August in this hallowed palace, Asaba overwhelmingly voted me to step into the shoes of of my forebears as the 14th Asagba of Asaba. They saw in me, the qualities of a king fit enough to step into the shoes of my predecessor, the 13th Asagba of Asaba.
“Their vote, for me was a call to service; a clear expression of trust reposed in my capacity to push the frontiers of engagement in our land. Their vote was also an invitation that l should lead this land that we so much venerate to greatest heights.”
He added that, “the expectations from me are very high and l want to promise that I will never betray your trust; l will never disappoint the people of Asaba.”
The new Asagba pledged to uphold and promote the culture and traditions of Asaba people and also foster unity, promote inclusivity and sow seeds of love among his people.
He also pledged to strengthen all traditional authorities and institutions, adding that “I will be accessible, open to advice, encourage constructive criticism and show zero tolerance for gossip.”
Reiterating his determination to push for the establishment of a federal University in Asaba, Azinge assured that he would work vigorously with the Delta State Government.
“I will continue to support government as we strive to make Asaba the State capital of our dreams. I will network with the Federal Government to attract more institutions to Asaba”, the monarch said.
Earlier while handing over the sacred ancient authority held by his family to the new traditional ruler, Louis Edozien noted that Asaba has chosen well.
He expressed optimism that Azinge would bring to the Asagbaship his wisdom, good character, reputation and relationships.
He wished the monarch a successful, peaceful and happy reign.
