Prof. Epiphany Azinge, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) has emerged as the 14th Asagba of Asaba.
He will be coronated at a date to be announced.
The Asagba-in-Council announced his selection as the most qualified among a total of ten contenders in the race.
All the contenders hail from Ugbomanta quarters, whose turn it is, out of the five quarters (ebos), to produce the next Asagba after Obi Prof. Chike Edozien, who had since joined his ancestors.
The Ochendo Ahaba (Regent) Dr. Anthony Edozien, announced the result of the selection process in line with the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, applicable in Delta State, on Sunday afternoon at the former Palace of the Asagba of Asaba, at Ezenei quarters, Asaba.
As at filing this report, several dance troupes were entertaining people at the residence of the Asagba-designate, Prof. Azinge.
Few days ago, online reports had it that one of the leading contestants to the throne, Prof. Azinge, commenced the of process of taking the Obi title (red cap) which is the highest traditional social rank amongst the Ahaba people, Obiship institution.
Azinge was reported as one of traditional Chiefs in the Asagba’s cabinet with the title of ‘Okilolo Ahaba’.
He commenced the journey on the 5th of August, 2024 and the rigorous process he was made to undertake, stage-by-stage, according to the tradition and customs of the people, would be concluded by the time he proceeds to the Udo sacred ekpele site, secluded traditional ground, where he will ultimately adorn the indigenous anklet known as “eli li ukwu.”
As required by their custom, his spouse, Dr. Valerie Azinge (SAN), would also benefit from the Obiship position as Okpoho Eze.
The journey started in ernest by obtaining the Obiship title, with reports indicating that Prof. Azunge is well positioned for the contest over who becomes the next Asagba of Asaba.
Other contenders apart from Prof. Azinge, are Mr. Tony Ogugua Konwea; Prof. Emmanuel Onwuka and Ogbuechi Chinedu Esealuka among others are in the race.
Additional report from Ike Philip Abiagom and Austin Ogwuda
