Jonathan, Olu of Warri, others attend new Opobo king’s coronation

Former President Goodluck Jonathan and his spouse, Dame Patience Jonathan, arrived in Opobo Kingdom, Rivers State, to witness the coronation of King Charles Douglas Jaja, Jeki VI, Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom. The event took place at approximately 11:15 am, alongside a diverse group of guests. Governor of Rivers State, represented by his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, as well as former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Sir Gabriel Toby, and his wife, Dame Christie, were present.

Monarchs from other kingdoms, such as the Igwe of Onitsha, King Nnaemeka Obi, and the Olu of Warri, were also in attendance, along with other government officials.

King Charles Douglas Jaja assumes the throne following the passing of his predecessor, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, who died last year and was interred in April 2026. Atuwatse III, Olu of Warri's wife, commented on King Charles Douglas Jaja's stance on polygamy. The ancient kingdom held a September date for the crowning of its new king, choosing September 26, 2026, as the date for the grand coronation ceremony.

Dennis Naku, a journalist at Punch Newspapers, covered the event, reporting on the extensive preparations made to commemorate this historic occasion in the kingdom. The Vice Chairman of the Opobo Council of Chiefs, Princewill Dappa, assured that all necessary arrangements had been made for the momentous event.