Jonathan, Fubara, Igwe Achebe, Ogiame Atuwatse, Others Eulogise New Opobo King

On February 11, 2026, a grand ceremony commemorated the coronation of King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja as the Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom in Rivers State. The distinguished assembly included former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife Patience, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and traditional leaders such as Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, Ogiame Atuwatse III, and King Edward Asimini Dappa Pepple.

The event took place at King Jaja Square, the cultural heart of Opobo. King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, now Jeki VI, succeeds his predecessor King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, who passed away in April 2026.

The new monarch, anointed and crowned by Bishop Emmanuel Oko-Jaja, expressed gratitude to the dignitaries who journeyed to Opobo to witness the historic occasion. He vowed to uphold the dignity and rights of the Opobo people, vowing to protect their freedom and ensure their progress. King Charles reminded his audience of the heroic exodus of 1870, a journey to freedom that laid the foundation for the kingdom's future. He urged for a new era of development, unity, and global relevance.

Former President Jonathan praised the new king and the people of Opobo, highlighting King Jaja's significant role in the struggle for freedom, a struggle recognized across the globe. The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, attended the ceremony, represented by his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu. He emphasized the importance of traditional rulers in preserving the cultural heritage of Rivers State, praying for wisdom, peace, unity, and progress in King Jaja's reign.

Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, shared the historical relationship between Onitsha and Opobo, praising King Jaja for his honesty and courage in fighting for the freedom and prosperity of his people.