From Paul Osuyi, Asaba
A regent has been installed for Asaba Kingdom following the passing of the paramount traditional ruler, the 13th Asagba of Asaba, Obi (Prof) Joseph Chike Edozien.
The regent, Dr. Anthony Onuora Edozien (Ochendo), was formally introduced and presented by the Onihe (Chief Priest) Obi Chief Ubaka Attoh.
He is to pilot the affairs of the kingdom till a new Asagba is crowned.
Obi Edozien, a foremost Professor of Medicine, reportedly joined his ancestors at 99. He was billed to celebrate 100 years in July this year.
His passage was traditionally announced by the Chief Priest, Attoh, at a ceremony at the monarch’s palace on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, in a statement read by the Palace Secretary, Chief Patrick Ndili said burial arrangements of the departed king who ascended the throne on July 1, 1991 would be announced by the bereaved family and the Asaba kingdom at a later date.
In the meantime, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has expressed sadness on the passing of Obi Edozien few months to his centenary birthday.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Oborevwori stated that the revered monarch, throughout his 33-year reign, provided purposeful leadership for his people and residents of Asaba, the state capital.
He said that Asaba witnessed a quantum leap in urbanisation during Edozien’s rule, with respect to population, infrastructure, and socio-political developments.
According to the governor, Prof. Edozien made significant contributions over the years to making Asaba welcoming and pleasant for all Nigerians, adding that the late king was a “scholar per excellence, bridge-builder, and elder statesman.”
Oborevwori prayed that God would rest the soul of the departed monarch and grant the royal family and the people of Asaba the strength to bear this great loss.