The Royal Palace of Asaba solemnly announced the passing of His Royal Majesty Obi (Prof.) Chike Edozien, the Asagba of Asaba. Chief Patrick Ndil, the Palace Secretary, conveyed the news, marking the conclusion of the reign of the 13th Asagba, who assumed the throne on July 1, 1991. This announcement followed the acknowledgment by Chief Priest Obi Ubaka Attoh, conveyed to the Iyase, Obi Patrick Onyeobi, the Odogwu, Obi Nwanze Oduah, and the entire Asaba kingdom, following 21 blasts of the cannon in honor of the late king.
With a heavy heart, Chief Ndil revealed, “We announce the transition into eternal glory of our highly revered royal father, Asagba Obi (Prof.) Chike Edozien, the Asagba of Asaba.” He further noted that the late monarch, who served as the 13th Asagba of Asaba, ascended the throne in 1991 and passed away at the age of 100.
Refuting premature information about the passing of the Asagba of Asaba, Chief Ndil emphasized the traditional protocol, stating, “It is an abomination if a king passes on; you must wait for the declaration by his kingdom.”
Consequently, under the guidance of Chief Priest Ubaka Attoh, a regent was appointed to oversee the affairs of the kingdom until the selection and installation of a new Asagba. Anthony Edozien, the second son of the late Asagba, assumed the role, temporarily holding the position until the formal installment of a successor.
Acknowledging the interim leadership, Chief Ndil clarified, “We have not installed a new Asagba of Asaba; we only installed a regent who would hold forth to look after the kingdom for the departed royal father until a new Asagba is installed.” The ceremony proceeded with traditional protocols, as representatives from various quarters and dignitaries paid their respects to the new regent, followed by expressions of gratitude for the late king’s contributions to the community.
IMAGE: Channelsnews
