Okowa Salutes Asaba Monarch, Edozien at 96

By Omon-Julius Onabu

Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has joined eminent Deltans and Nigerians to congratulate the Asagba of Asaba, Obi (Prof) Chike Edozien, on the occasion of his 96th birthday.

Okowa said the Asaba monarch has in 29 years on the throne of his ancestors “provided purposeful, courageous and tenacious leadership” to his people and therefore deserved to be celebrated on this special occasion of his birthday anniversary.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba yesterday, Okowa commended the monarch for making Asaba peaceful and investment-friendly during his reign.

He joined the Edozien family and people of Asaba at home and in the Diaspora in celebrating the nonagenarian monarch, “scholar per excellence, bridge-builder and elder statesman on this outstanding point in the journey of his life.”

He prayed that the traditional ruler would remain in good health, wisdom and strength to continue leading the people of his kingdom.

The governor lauded the erudite professor and monarch for his contributions to the development of Asaba and for being a good host to Deltans and Nigerians as the traditional ruler of the capital city of Delta State.

Okowa noted that the Asagba of Asaba has distinguished himself by initiating series of cultural and traditional reforms for the enhancement of the living conditions of the people of the kingdom, and ensured their appropriate recognition and strategic relevance in the ever-important traditional institution in the society.

According to Okowa, “On behalf of the government and people of the state, I warmly felicitate with His Royal Majesty Obi Chike Edozien CFR, the Asagba of Asaba, on the occasion of his 96th birth anniversary.

“We pray that the Almighty God will continue to give you good health and wisdom to pilot the traditional affairs of your kingdom and offer valuable contributions to the development of our dear state and Nigeria.”