Epiphany Azinge, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), has been named the 14th Asagba of Asaba. His formal coronation will take place in due time.
However, Ogbueshi Olisaedua Uwaechia, a prominent Asaba chief and the Okpala Onisha, has criticized the Asagba-in-Council for bypassing the traditional rotation principle in selecting the new Asagba.
The Concerned Asaba Indigenes (CAI) also expressed strong objections to the lack of rotation or zoning within Ugbomanta during the nomination and selection process. They argue that any qualified candidate should be considered regardless of their family, Idumu, or Ogbe within Ugbomanta. The group emphasized that zoning has historically been used to ensure inclusiveness, fairness, and equity among different candidates, villages, and groups.
The CAI condemned the Asagba-in-Council’s decision to disregard zoning in the Ugbomanta quarters, calling it unprecedented and unusual.
Other candidates in the race included Mr. Tony Ogugua Konwea, Prof. Emmanuel Onwuka, and Ogbuechi Chinedu Esealuka, among others. The Asagba-in-Council chose Azinge as the most qualified out of the ten contenders.
Azinge, from the Ugbomanta quarters, is set to succeed Obi Prof. Chike Edozien, who has recently passed away. The selection result was announced by the Ochendo Ahaba (Regent), Dr. Anthony Edozien, according to the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, applicable to Delta State. The announcement took place on Sunday afternoon at the former Palace of the Asagba of Asaba in Ezenei quarters, Asaba.
At the time of reporting, dance troupes were performing at the residence of the Asagba-designate, Azinge.
Azinge, a leading contender for the Asagba throne, began his journey to receive the Obi title (red cap), the highest traditional rank among the Ahaba people, on August 5, 2024. He will complete the process at the Udo sacred Ekpele site, where he will receive the indigenous anklet known as “eli li ukwu.”
As per custom, his wife, Valerie Azinge (SAN), will also be honored with the Obiship position of Okpoho Eze.
CREDIT: DAILY POST