By Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
A moment of pride and historic recognition unfolded in the heart of the Niger Delta as His Imperial Majesty, Pere Zacchaeus Doubra Egbunu, the Agadagba and Paramount Ruler of Arogbo-Ijaw Kingdom, was formally inaugurated into the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the apex Ijaw socio-cultural organization, the Ijaw National Congress.
The historic ceremony took place at the revered Ijaw House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, drawing together prominent leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders from across the Niger Delta region.
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by the President of the Ijaw National Congress, Benjamin Okaba, who welcomed the newly appointed trustees and emphasized the importance of strong leadership and unity within the Ijaw nation.
The event attracted an array of distinguished personalities, including the Chairman of the INC Western Zone, Priye Noel Kuete, and respected Ijaw leader Felix Omemu George, alongside other eminent traditional chiefs and community leaders.
A Strategic Representation for the Western Zone
The Board of Trustees of the Ijaw National Congress was structured to reflect the diversity and geographical spread of the Ijaw people. In the latest composition, three slots were allocated to the Western Zone, which covers Edo, Delta, and Ondo States.
The inclusion of the Agadagba of Arogbo-Ijaw Kingdom in this prestigious body is widely regarded as a major boost for the Western Ijaw axis. It strengthens the representation of the Arogbo-Ijaw people within the highest advisory structure of the INC, ensuring their voice is heard in critical discussions concerning the future of the Ijaw nation.
For the people of Arogbo-Ijaw Kingdom, the development represents a proud milestone that reinforces the kingdom’s longstanding influence in the socio-political affairs of the Niger Delta.
Royal Delegation from Arogbo-Ijaw
His Imperial Majesty was accompanied to the historic event by a powerful delegation of traditional leaders and palace officials from Arogbo-Ijaw Kingdom. Among them were the Secretary-General of the Arogbo-Ijaw Traditional Rulers Council, High Chief Longlife Titiboh, the Special Assistant to the Agadagba, High Chief Mike Egbunu, and other respected chiefs including High Chief Ofinege, High Chief Justice Ofeyeju, and High Chief Austin Ogokimi Kpemi.
Their presence symbolized unity and collective pride within the kingdom, demonstrating the strong institutional backing behind the revered throne of Arogbo-Ijaw.
Distinguished Members of the Newly Inaugurated Board
The newly inaugurated Board of Trustees of the Ijaw National Congress comprises notable figures drawn from the various zones of the Ijaw nation. Members include:
- Wing Commander P.Y. Biakpara (Rtd.) – Western Zone
- His Imperial Majesty Pere Zacchaeus Doubra Egbunu, Agadagba of Arogbo-Ijaw Kingdom – Western Zone
- Chief M.O.E. Tiempo – Western Zone
- Her Excellency Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Rtd.) – Central Zone
- High Chief Fedelis Agbiki – Central Zone
- Professor Tarilah Tebepah – Central Zone
- His Royal Highness Acheseinimie Micah Frank, Bolo Luka VIII, Amayanabo of Bolo Kingdom – Eastern Zone
- Dumo Lulu-Briggs – Eastern Zone
- Engineer Telemaye Nathaniel Ekpoke – Eastern Zone
- Chief Joshua Bernard Fumudoh – Past President
- Professor Atuboyedia Wolfe Obianime – Past President
- Barrister Boma Obuoforibo – Past President
A Symbol of Leadership and Cultural Continuity
Observers say the elevation of the Agadagba of Arogbo-Ijaw Kingdom into the Board of Trustees of the Ijaw National Congress is a recognition of his leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the unity and advancement of the Ijaw nation.
Traditional rulers continue to play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, mediating community interests, and advocating for development across the Niger Delta. With the Agadagba now occupying a strategic position within the INC’s highest advisory body, many believe that the interests of the Arogbo-Ijaw Kingdom and the wider Western Ijaw communities will receive stronger representation.
The inauguration therefore stands not merely as a ceremonial event but as a reaffirmation of the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in shaping the political and cultural destiny of the Ijaw people.
For the Arogbo-Ijaw Kingdom, the occasion will remain a historic chapter—one that celebrates heritage, leadership, and the strengthening of the collective voice of the Ijaw nation.
Source: Palace Media Team, Arogbo-Ijaw Kingdom
Homepage: https://globalegberi.com.ng/wp
Author: Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
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