Edith CHUKU
Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, has described the coronation of the new Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, His Majesty, King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, Jeki VI, as a milestone for Opobo and the Niger Delta region.
Ogbuku gave this description while congratulating the new monarch, wishing him a peaceful and prosperous reign.
King Jaja VI was formally crowned the sixth Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom at the colourful ceremony, succeeding the late King Dandeson Douglas Jaja.
The NDDC boss joined prominent Nigerians, traditional rulers and other dignitaries at the coronation ceremony held at King Jaja Square in Opobo Town, Rivers State.
According to him, the Monarch’s coronation is a significant moment for the historic kingdom and the Niger Delta region.
The NDDC Chief Executive Officer commended the new monarch for assuming the historic throne at a significant period in the kingdom’s history, noting the enduring importance of the traditional institution in preserving Opobo’s rich cultural heritage, identity, and values.
He also celebrated King Jaja VI for the responsibility his people entrusted to him, expressing confidence that his reign would further strengthen unity, peace and development in Opobo Kingdom.
Ogbuku noted that the history of Opobo Kingdom and its founding father, King Jaja of Opobo, remained an important part of Niger Delta history, particularly in leadership, enterprise, courage, and community development.
He stressed the importance of collaboration among traditional institutions, government, and other stakeholders in advancing sustainable development across the Niger Delta, adding that traditional rulers have an important role in mobilising their people and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The NDDC Managing Director congratulated the people of Opobo Kingdom on the successful coronation and wished King Jaja VI a peaceful, prosperous and impactful reign.
The coronation attracted several prominent personalities, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, Rivers State Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Obong of Calabar and the Amanyanabo of Bonny, King Edward Asimini Dappa Pepple, among others.
King Jaja VI, elected in December 2025 after his predecessor’s death, has pledged to protect his people’s rights and freedoms and uphold the throne’s dignity.
