The vacuum created by the death of the 13rh Asagba of Asaba, Obi (Prof) Joseph Chike Edozien, has been filled with the coronation of a successor, Obi (Prof) Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, OON, SAN.
In a brief but impressive ceremony, which took place on Saturday at the late Asagba’s Palace in Asaba, the Ochendo Asagba, Engr. Louis Edozien, who held brief since the 13th February, 2024, 2official announcement of his father’s passing, transferred the staff of office held by the late Asagba, through the Onihe of Asaba, Chief Ubaka Atu, to Obi (Prof) Azinge.
Onoi Ahaba, Obi (Dr ) Benibe Ugboko, presented the keys to the Ogwa Ukwu to the incoming Asagba, while the Onyeudo of Asaba, Chief Austin Ndili, who heads the traditional Court of Appeal, also presented the keys to the court to the Asagba designate through the Onihe
This was followed by the anointing of the Asagba designate by the Onihe after which he was formally crowned the 14th Asagba of Asaba in the presence of former Governor James Ibori, members of the Asagba-in-Council, Obis, Olinzeles, Chiefs, among other traditional title holders and imminent personalities from within and outside the state.
Before transferring the symbol of authority to the new Asagba, the Ochendo recalled the transparent process that led to his emergence from among ten contestants, describing him as the right person for the throne.
He expressed confidence that Asagba (Prof) Azinge would diligently continue from where his predecessor stopped in taking Asaba to greater heights and solicited the support of all segments of the community for the new King.
In his acceptance speech, Obi (Prof) Epiphany Azinge, who was flanked by his wife, Agu Nwanyi Valerie Azinge, SAN,, thanked the Ochendo for effectively midwifing the peaceful and transparent process that led to his selection and urged other eminently contenders who were not as lucky as he was to join him in giving Asaba a purposeful reign.
The new Asagba reiterated his pledge to bring about the needed transformation that would reposition Asaba for greatness, promising to collaborate with the state and Oshimili South local government, as well as other relevant authorities to ensure the realization of set goals.
These include to uphold and promote the traditions and culture of Asaba people, foster unity among the people and promote inclusivity, establish a welfare/development fund for community development, build a befitting permanent palace of the Asagba of Asaba, attract Federal University to Asaba, among others.
