Erstwhile Okilolo of Asaba Kingdom, Professor Epiphany Azinge SAN, has been coronated as the 14th Asagba of Asaba Kingdom in Delta State. His ascensio
Erstwhile Okilolo of Asaba Kingdom, Professor Epiphany Azinge SAN, has been coronated as the 14th Asagba of Asaba Kingdom in Delta State. His ascension to the throne was sequel to 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.
It was a hotly contested race with about 10 aspirants aspiring for the stool.
The colourful ceremony which took place at the Asagba palace had a former governor of the State, Chief James Ibori; former Senator representing Delta North senatorial district, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi; member representing Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency of the State in the House of Representatives, Ngozi Okolie, and other notable personalities in attendance.
The new Asaba king who is a former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, 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 first speech after his coronation, Azinge promised to operate an open-door policy, anchored on justice, fairness and constructive criticism. He, however, stated that there would be zero tolerance to gossip in his palace. He promised to make justice and fairness to all as the mantra of his leadership of Asaba Kingdom. He noted that expectations are very high but 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 he 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 to achieve the aim.