Obi Oputa III Begins Reign, Urges Youth to Lead Aboh Kingdom to Development …..Community Divided as Traditional Chiefs Decry Alleged Breach of Custom
ABOH/Nigeria: Dr. Greg Nnamdi Oputa, a recipient of the American President’s “Lifetime Achievement Award,” has been crowned as the 20th Obi of Aboh Kingdom in Nigeria’s South-South region. The colourful coronation ceremony took place on Sunday in Aboh, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the kingdom. However, his ascension has not been without controversy.
Dr. Oputa, now addressed as His Imperial Majesty, Obi Oputa III, expressed joy and optimism during an interview at the ancient Palace of Obi Oputa II.
“Today is a beautiful day, a new phase for the good people of Aboh Kingdom. I feel excited and fulfilled. God alone will give me the strength to move this kingdom forward,” he said. He called for unity and peace, urging the people to work together for the kingdom’s development, particularly the youth, whom he sees as critical to progress.
The Oputa Royal Family also expressed support for the new monarch. Prince Mike Oputa said, “Our people are happy that Dr. Greg Oputa is now His Imperial Majesty, Obi Oputa III. We pray that God will protect him and grant him the wisdom to lead Aboh Kingdom.”
Youth leader Mr. Odili Otunuya added that the new king’s exposure and education would attract development to the kingdom, stating, “We now have a king who can take Aboh forward.”
However, Dr. Oputa’s coronation has been clouded by allegations of intimidation and forced endorsement. A group within Aboh, led by traditional chiefs, condemned the actions of Dr. Oputa and his associates, accusing them of using armed police officers to coerce the spiritual leader, the Oduah, into endorsing Oputa’s candidacy.
In a statement signed by Chief Ogwu Jimpama, Chief Ndupu M. Major, and Comrade Chilly Opene, it was alleged that Dr. Oputa and his supporters forcibly entered the Oduah’s residence. Eyewitnesses claimed that Chief Chuka Obi, one of Oputa’s allies, held the Oduah at gunpoint, forcing him to endorse the kingship.
The incident sparked outrage among community members, with traditional leaders condemning the act as a violation of Aboh customs.
“We distance ourselves from this shameful and abominable act,” said Chief Ogwu Jimpama. The Aboh Traditional Council has vowed to maintain the integrity of the kingship selection process and ensure justice for those responsible for the incident.
Despite the controversy, Dr. Oputa’s reign begins with a focus on unity, development, and progress for the kingdom. At the same time, the Aboh community grapples with the fallout of the disputed kingship process. Residents have been urged to remain calm as efforts are made to restore peace and uphold the kingdom’s traditions.
Witness to the ceremony however stated that all was calm throughout the installation ceremony, despite the initial objection of some of the chiefs of the Kingdom.
