Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) governorship candidate in Delta State, has congratulated the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, on his two-year coronation anniversary. Iyovwaye praised the monarch for his remarkable achievements and promotion of peace in the kingdom. He noted that the Asagba's reign had demonstrated that traditional leadership goes beyond customs and traditions to include the welfare and development of the people.
According to Iyovwaye, the Asagba ascended the throne in October 2024 as a distinguished scholar and Senior Advocate, bringing his experience and wisdom to bear on the traditional institution. Iyovwaye highlighted some of the projects undertaken during the monarch's reign, including a 1,000-capacity Event Center at the permanent palace and a Smart Nursery and Primary School at Akwuose. These projects, Iyovwaye said, demonstrated the monarch's commitment to initiatives capable of improving the lives of residents and indigenes of Asaba.
The NDC governorship candidate identified peace and unity as major features of the Asagba's reign. He described Asaba as one of the most peaceful state capitals in Nigeria, noting that indigenes and non-indigenes as well as people from different ethnic backgrounds had continued to coexist in the city. Iyovwaye attributed this development to the monarch's approach to leadership, saying that he had chosen dialogue over division, unity over discord, and justice over sentiment.
Iyovwaye also recalled the monarch's message during Peace Day, where he emphasized that peace is an industry that must be harnessed. The monarch had promoted greater inclusion in the traditional institution by opening the palace to more people and recognizing women in leadership. Iyovwaye noted that the Asagba had made mothers and daughters Chiefs in their own right, reminding everyone that Asaba's future must include everybody.
While congratulating the monarch, Iyovwaye prayed for continued divine wisdom, good health, longevity, and a peaceful reign. He expressed his gratitude for the Asagba's leadership, saying that many people sit on thrones, but few truly reign. Iyovwaye extended his congratulations to the Asagba, his wife, the Okpoho Eze, Dr. Valerie Azinge, the royal family, and the people of Asaba.
The Asagba's reign has seen several developmental projects, including the beautification of Ogbeke Square and Kainebisi Roundabout, as well as the establishment of a new cemetery. These projects have improved the lives of residents and indigenes of Asaba. Iyovwaye's commendation is a testament to the Asagba's efforts to develop the kingdom and promote peace.
Iyovwaye concluded with the traditional praise, "Nna Agu! Nna Agu! Nna Agu! Long live the Obi! May his reign be peaceful and prosperous!" He wished the Asagba and the people of Asaba continued prosperity and growth.
Key points
- Deacon Chris Iyovwaye praises Asagba's developmental projects and peace initiatives.
- Asagba's reign has promoted unity and inclusion in Asaba.
- Iyovwaye commends Asagba for his approach to traditional leadership.
