By Emmanuel Obe
The Opobo Kingdom will witness a major traditional event on Saturday, September 26, 2026, when His Majesty, King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, is formally crowned Jeki VI, Amanyanabo and Treaty King of Opobo Kingdom.
The Opobo Council of Chiefs announced the forthcoming coronation at a press briefing in Opobo on Monday, describing it as a significant moment in the history of the kingdom.
According to the Council, the coronation will mark the continuation of the historic throne associated with King Jaja of Opobo and open a new chapter in the life of the kingdom.
The Council said the institution of the King Jaja of Opobo throne has a long-standing legacy associated with courage, enterprise, diplomacy and leadership in the Niger Delta.
It disclosed that preparations for the ceremony had included a series of diplomatic and traditional visits to respected traditional and national leaders to strengthen historic relationships and extend formal invitations to the event.
Among those visited, the Council said, was former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, as well as other traditional rulers and prominent leaders.
The coronation ceremony, according to the Council, will showcase the cultural heritage, traditional institutions and history of Opobo, while providing an opportunity for indigenes and people of the kingdom in the diaspora to unite around the throne and the future of Opobo Kingdom.
The Council invited the people of Rivers State, Nigerians, friends of Opobo and members of the international community to participate in the celebration.
It also called on the media to highlight the history and heritage of Opobo, particularly its story of resilience, leadership, enterprise and continuity.
The Council appealed to residents and visitors to cooperate with arrangements for security, traffic management, protocol and general coordination ahead of the influx of guests expected for the ceremony.
Speaking on behalf of the Opobo Council of Chiefs, its Vice Chairman, Alapu Kubiri, Alabo Princewill N. Wogo Dappa, urged members of the press to attend, report and document the coronation.
He said September 26 would be another defining moment in the history of Opobo Kingdom as King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, Jeki VI, formally assumes the traditional mantle.
The Council expressed hope that the event would further strengthen unity and preserve the historical and cultural identity of the kingdom.
