Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has presented a certificate of recognition and staff of office to King Charles Macpepple Jaja, Jeki VI, Amanyabo of Opobo, formally recognising him as a first-class traditional ruler.
The presentation, according to Governor Fubara, marks the completion of the process that followed the death and burial of the late monarch, King Douglas Jaja, Jeki V, and the subsequent selection and coronation of his successor.
Fubara, who is from Opobo, said that although he was absent at the coronation ceremony, his absence was due to an official call to service and should not be interpreted politically.
The governor was a member of the federal delegation to the 81st UNGA while the coronation of the King was being held.
He recalled that the late monarch had been involved in a legal battle spanning more than 27 years, stressing that efforts by his administration and other stakeholders helped resolve the issues surrounding the selection and installation of the new king.
The governor said he was proud to have played a role in bringing the process to completion, describing the government’s recognition of the new monarch as the final step in the process.
He congratulated King Charles Macpepple Jaja and urged him to unite all sections of the kingdom, including those who may have lost out during the selection process.
Governor Fubara also charged the new monarch to make development in education, healthcare and small and medium-scale businesses a priority, describing them as essential to tackling crime and improving the wellbeing of the people.
He urged the monarch to maintain a firm stance against criminality, warning against compromising security because of family or personal relationships.
The governor further challenged Opobo’s title holders and wealthy indigenes to move beyond ceremonial participation and make tangible contributions to the development of the kingdom.
He called on the title holders to ensure that within the next year, their collective efforts produce visible development projects in Opobo.
Governor Fubara assured the new monarch of the state government’s continued support and urged the Opobo Council of Traditional Rulers and other stakeholders to work with him for the progress of the kingdom.
He also congratulated the people of Opobo and wished the new monarch a successful and peaceful reign.
In his response, the newly recognised monarch pledged to promote peace, development and unity in Opobo and Rivers State.
He described the recognition as a sacred trust from the government and people of the state, promising to discharge his responsibilities with justice, peace and dignity.
The King assured Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State that Opobo would remain a partner for peace, development and unity.
He also referenced the legacy of King Jaja, who established Opobo about 156 years ago through trade and diplomacy, saying he would build on that legacy through service, inclusion and vision.
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