A new Obi (King), Chukwuka Noah Akaeze I, has been presented to
the people of Ubulu-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta
State. Obi Akaeze I succeeded his father, late Obi Akaeze Edward Ofulue III who
was kidnapped and subsequently murdered last month by gunmen.
The presentation of the
15-year-old King followed the fulfillment of different rites that culminated
in his crowning as King by the kingmakers of Ubulu-Uku.
He was first presented to the members of the Royal family before
the presentation to the council of elders at the palace. The brief ceremony
was attended by prominent citizens of the kingdom including the member
representing Aniocha/Oshimili constituency at the Federal House of
Representatives, Mrs. Onyemaechi Mrakpor and the President-General of
Ubulu-Uku Development Union, Comrade Jones Ofunne.
Also in attendance was the chairman of Aniocha South council,
Mr. Isaac Anwuzia, traditional chiefs and title holders in the kingdom,
religious leaders, women, youths and other stakeholders of the agrarian
community Speaking on the significance of the ceremony, Secretary of the
Palace, Barr. Joseph Obazei described it as “wonderful in our time.” “This is
a young man who was not even looking up to this position because his father was
young and vibrant, unfortunately this bad event occurred.
“He has now been thrust
upon the throne taking up the mantle of his late father. Ubulu-Uku people are
very happy that somebody has taken up the throne because the king never dies.
“When it appears that there is no king, there is already a king. That is what
has just happened.” Barr. Obazei told Saturday Sun that in Ubulu- Uku
tradition, there were not too many rites to the installation of a new king.
“By our tradition, you
can wake up in the morning and see the heir apparent sitting on the throne and
issue orders which will be obeyed. That will show that something happened in
the night and something has happened now.
“So this young man has
taken over the stool of his father, and now he can begin to direct the town,”
he explained. On his part, the chairman of Aniocha South council, Mr. Anwuzia
assured the new king and people of Ubulu-Uku of his administration’s unflinching
support, adding that measures were already on to ensure the presentation of
staff of office by the State government. -
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