ONCE again, the ancient city of Asaba has demonstrated uncommon unity strengthened by strong cultural values with the ascension of Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, as the 14th Asagba of Asaba. Azinge’s emergence came in the wake of a peaceful transitionsince the demise of HRM Obi (Prof) Chike Edozien, Asaba’s illustrious and incomparable 13th monarch. The latter’s seamless ascension reflects a harmonious process rooted in tradition and consensus at a time when many communities are faced with internal strife over monarchical successions, most times embroiled in protracted legal battles. Gratifyingly, Asaba stands as a shining example of cohesion and communal wholeness.
The emergence of HRM Prof. Azinge is more than just the coronation of a new monarch; it represents a new dawn for Asaba community, the Anioma nation, Delta State and by extension, the larger society. His choice reflects an abiding belief in the precedent set by the late HRM Prof. Edozien, whose academic brilliance and stature brought prestige to the throne. The choice of another professor—the second time in 33 years- speaks volumes about the values of the Asaba people, which, as it were, reflect a deep respect for intellectual fecundity, leadership, discipline, professional exposure, and tradition.
We congratulate Prof. Azinge whose credentials are inspiring and enviable. As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a distinguished professor of law, and an erudite jurist, his contributions to the legal profession and national development are well-documented. His tenure as Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) solidified his reputation as a legal icon and a visionary leader. His accolades, both national and international, have positioned him as one of Nigeria’s foremost legal minds, and now, as the custodian of Asaba’s rich cultural heritage; he brings to the throne a wealth of experience and intellectual prowess.
His ascension thus signals the continuation of Asaba’s tradition of intellectual kingship, a tradition shared by only a select few, such as the renowned monarch of Oko in Anambra State, Prof. Laz Ekwueme. With Azinge at the helm, the Asaba people can look forward to a reign that is not only steeped in history and customs but also progressive in its outlook, envisaged to follow the indelible footprints of the late Prof. Edozien. Of course, Azinge is well-poised to build on that legacy, with a view to ushering Asaba into a new era of cultural renaissance and infrastructural development.
It’s significant that HRM Azinge made a profound pledge to the Asaba people to uphold their traditions, foster unity, and promote inclusivity. That pledge encapsulates sowing seeds of love and fraternity, strengthening the institutions needed to safeguard Asaba’s heritage, and becoming accessible as well as welcoming constructive criticisms. His promise to establish welfare funds for community development and envisioned building of a central palace for the Asagba are not only commendable but also signal his commitment to infrastructural growth.
Perhaps most importantly, Prof. Azinge’s emphasis on collaboration with the Delta State Government and the Federal Government to attract more institutions to Asaba underscores his understanding of the socio-political landscape. As the capital of Delta State, Asaba is uniquely positioned to lead in development, and under his leadership, there is every reason to believe that Asaba can achieve its potential as a thriving hub of culture, education, and commerce. His call for the establishment of a federal university in Asaba is particularly noteworthy, as it would enhance the city’s educational profile and foster socio-economic growth.
We appreciate his extension of the olive branch to his former contenders for the throne as a necessary step to cement the bond of unity in the community. By setting aside past differences, he has opened the door for all Asaba sons and daughters to rally behind a shared vision of prosperity and peace.
Granted, Prof. Azinge had been entrusted with immense responsibility of leading Asaba at a critical phase, but we believe that his track record and capacity will help him to weather challenges. It is expected that Azinge will not be lured by the grandeur of tradition but by a demonstrable ability to innovate and adapt to modern challenges. By so doing, his reign will bolster the future of Asaba, given his avowal of fairness, justice, and an unwavering commitment to his people.
Once again, we join the people of Asaba in celebrating the coronation of HRM Prof. Epiphany Azinge, a man of great accomplishments like his immediate predecessor. While he deserves the cooperation of his people, we are confident that his reign would usher in an epoch marked by progress, unity, and cohesion, but above all, the preservation of Asaba’s heritage.
