Labour Party (LP) National Leader and presidential candidate in the February 25 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi has paid homage to the newly coronated Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Chibuogu Azinge, SAN, describing the Senior lawyer’s enthronement Saturday (yesterday, October 5) as the 14th Asagba of Asaba as “momentous, not only for the people of Asaba but also for all who appreciate the value of tradition and leadership.”
Obi was among the dignitaries in attendance at the colourful ceremony which was held at the Asagba’s palace, Ezenei Quarters, Asaba.
While paying his tribute, Obi knelt before the new king to greet him in a gesture of deep respect for the tradition of Ndi Asaba and Igboland as a whole.
“This act of reverence speaks to our age-long shared cultural heritage and the honour we accord to our traditional values and leadership. Moments like these highlight the importance of preserving our rich cultural heritage, which is vital for building the productive society we aspire to, one necessary for a new Nigeria,” he was later to say, reflecting on his act of humility and deep respect for tradition.
Prof. Azinge, a nationally acclaimed Senior Advocate of Nigeria became the 14th Asagba of Asaba yesterday.
In a post-coronation speech, the new Asagba paid glowing tributes to his predecessor, the late Prof. Obi Chike Edozien, the 13th Asagba of Asaba, describing him as “a father figure.”
Azinge said the late traditional ruler was a shining light for the community, a ruler who worked tirelessly for the peace and overall development of Asaba.
“The late Obi Chike Edozien, the 13th Asagba of Asaba was a great patriot, an accomplished scholar and traditional leader who worked tirelessly for the development of Asaba,” Prof. Azinge declared.
“His vision was matchless. He was a pragmatic leader and very committed in the pursuit of peace and unity of the Asaba nation.
“He was a father figure to me and I will forever cherish his leadership vision and ideologies which he held so dearly till death.”
The traditional ruler who pledged to work for the peace, progress and unity of the ancient town, enjoined the people of Asaba to join hands and build a prosperous community.
“I pledge to be accessible, open to advice, encourage constructive criticism, and I will use my network of connections to attract federal presence to Asaba,” he declared.
“I will encourage general coexistence among the people of Asaba and Anioma.”
Azinge’s reign is expected to bring peace, progress, and prosperity to the people of Asaba, reinforcing the values that have long sustained the kingdom.
Many attendees, including Mr. Obi, voiced their confidence in Prof. Azinge’s ability to lead Asaba into a brighter future, commending his proven leadership skills.
“It was a privilege to witness such a historic event and to join in the festivities that celebrated both the rich heritage of Asaba and the outstanding leadership qualities of Prof. Azinge. I wish him many fruitful years as the Asagba, and may his reign bring peace, progress, and prosperity to his people,” Obi surmised.
