The new Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, His Majesty King Charles Douglas Mac-Pepple Jaja, Jeki the Sixth, has pledged to build on the legacy of his forebears and lead his people with courage, vision and enterprise.
King Jaja the Sixth made the commitment in his coronation address on Saturday in Opobo Town, where he was anointed and crowned by the Bishop of the Niger Delta Diocese, Right Reverend Emmanuel Oko-Jaja.
The monarch paid tribute to the founder of Opobo Kingdom, King Jaja of Opobo, whom he described as a courageous strategist who built Opobo into a major commercial centre and defended its economic interests against British imperial pressure.
He expressed appreciation to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, former President Goodluck Jonathan, the Obi of Onitsha and other dignitaries for honouring his coronation.
Earlier, Governor Fubara, represented by his Deputy, Professor Ngozi Nma-Odu, urged traditional rulers to remain custodians of their heritage and partners in promoting peace and development.
The governor described the coronation as a celebration of the rich history, culture and enduring heritage of Opobo Kingdom.
In his goodwill message, former President Goodluck Jonathan expressed confidence that the new monarch would promote peace, unity and development in Opobo Kingdom.
The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe, described the relationship between Onitsha and Opobo as one founded on trade, mutual respect and the enduring legacy of their forebears.
