Two Years On The Throne: Azinge Credits Asaba People For Kingdom’s Progress
Governor Hails Monarch’s Leadership
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has commended the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, for promoting peace, unity and cultural development during his two years on the throne.
The governor, represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo, gave the commendation on Monday during activities marking the monarch’s second coronation anniversary.
Oborevwori described Asagba Azinge as a distinguished legal scholar and administrator whose experience and intellect had strengthened the traditional institution.
According to him, the monarch has continued to promote understanding among Asaba residents while preserving the kingdom’s cultural heritage and maintaining a constructive relationship with government.
Peaceful Coexistence
The governor particularly praised the Asagba for encouraging harmonious relations between indigenes and non-indigenes in Asaba.
He stressed that traditional rulers have an important role to play in governance, peacebuilding and community development, especially at a time when communities need cooperation to achieve sustainable progress.
Oborevwori also assured the Asagba-in-Council of the state government’s continued partnership in developing Asaba.
He identified infrastructure, security, education, cultural renewal and youth empowerment as key areas where government would continue to support the kingdom.
The governor congratulated the monarch on his second anniversary and wished him continued wisdom, strength, good health and a long and peaceful reign.
‘Peace Is Our Most Valuable Resource’
In his remarks, Asagba Azinge said peace, unity and the collective support of the people remained the foundation of Asaba’s development.
The monarch said the anniversary was not primarily an occasion to celebrate his personal achievements. Rather, he described it as an opportunity to acknowledge the peace that had prevailed in the kingdom and the collective efforts of Asaba people.
He expressed gratitude to the sons and daughters of Asaba for supporting his leadership since his ascension to the throne on 5 October 2024.
The Asagba acknowledged that although a traditional ruler could dream, envision and provide leadership, meaningful development required the active support of the people.
“I may dream the dreams, possibly see visions, but nothing can work out or flourish without the support of Asaba people,” he said.
He added that the support he had received from the people had strengthened his efforts to advance the kingdom.
Development Depends on Stability
The monarch described peace as Asaba’s most valuable resource.
He maintained that development, investment and social progress could not thrive where instability and discord persisted.
“Peace is the industry we, as a community, harness, and with it comes all forms of development which would not be possible if there was no peace,” Azinge said.
He expressed satisfaction with the growth and transformation taking place across Asaba while noting that the kingdom had maintained its reputation as a peaceful and welcoming community.
Stronger Traditional Partnerships
Asagba Azinge also acknowledged the cooperation of traditional rulers across Delta State and beyond.
He said his engagements with fellow monarchs had helped strengthen relationships, build bridges and promote a shared vision for the future.
The monarch equally praised the cordial relationship between the traditional institution and the Delta State Government.
He described Asaba and the state government as “partners in progress,” stressing the importance of sustained cooperation in advancing the kingdom.
Book, Documentary Unveiled
The anniversary ceremony featured goodwill messages from former Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; Second Vice Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers’ Council, HRM Obi Henry Kikachukwu of Ubulu-Uno; Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka III of Obosi; and Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. Kelvin Obi Ezenyili.
A major highlight was the unveiling of a book titled Asagba Azinge: Architect of Traditional Governance.
A documentary highlighting the monarch’s activities and achievements since his assumption of office was also presented.
The celebration further featured the cutting of the anniversary cake.
Traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials, community leaders, members of the National and State Assemblies, local government chairmen, and sons and daughters of Asaba attended the event.
