King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja (Jeki VI), the new monarch of Opobo Kingdom, has begun his reign with a plea for assistance to address the critical needs of his 156-year-old kingdom. The new king's outcry was heard by former President Goodluck Jonathan and numerous monarchs who attended his coronation ceremony. King Jaja VI emphasized that his kingdom requires equity and partnership, citing the legacy of the first King Jaja, who sought fair trade.
The coronation ceremony, which took place on September 26, 2026, was attended by dignitaries, including traditional rulers from across Nigeria. King Jaja VI listed the critical areas of need for his kingdom, including shore protection for Opobo satellite communities, quality healthcare, and the establishment of higher institutions. The new monarch stressed that his kingdom's needs are clear and that he seeks partnership and equity to address them.
The Opobo king recalled the significant contributions made by his kingdom to national development, including the provision of palm produce and brave men. King Jaja VI urged the people of Opobo Kingdom to uphold the courage, vision, and enterprise of their forebears. He paid tribute to the founding monarch, King Jaja of Opobo, describing him as a courageous strategist and statesman who built Opobo into a major commercial center.
King Jaja VI pledged to uphold the sovereignty and dignity of Opobo, emphasizing that he will rule with truth, justice, and unity. He expressed gratitude to those who made the coronation a success, including top personalities and royals such as former President Jonathan, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, and Asari Dokubo. The new monarch was elected in December 2025, following the death of his predecessor, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja.
The coronation program, which began a week earlier with traditional rites and festivities, came to an end with the new monarch's crowning. The ceremony was attended by traditional rulers from across the country, including the King and Amanyanabo of Bonny, the Dein of Agbor, and several others. Although Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State was not physically present, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, led the state delegation.
The Rivers State government has urged traditional rulers in the state to remain custodians of the people's heritage while contributing to peace, stability, and development. The government described traditional institutions as important partners in preserving cultural values, promoting unity, and maintaining peace across communities. Deputy Governor Odu stressed the need to preserve and transmit these values to future generations.
Former President Jonathan congratulated King Jaja VI, describing him as a respected traditional ruler whose reign would promote peace, unity, and development in the kingdom. Jonathan recalled the historical significance of Opobo and the enduring legacy of its traditional institution, expressing confidence that the new monarch would build on the legacy of his predecessors.
Key points
- The new King Jaja of Opobo, Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja (Jeki VI), has called for help to address his kingdom's critical needs.
- The kingdom's critical needs include shore protection, quality healthcare, and the establishment of higher institutions.
- King Jaja VI seeks partnership and equity to address the kingdom's needs, citing the legacy of the first King Jaja.
