TheCable

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the Igbo socio-cultural group, says Chike Edozien, the late Asagba of Asaba in Delta, died when his wise counsel was needed the most.

The traditional ruler recently passed away at the age of 99.

In a statement on Friday, Alex Ogbonnia, national publicity secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, described  Edozien as an “Igbo trailblazer” who led the people of Asaba with “unassailable exemplariness, courage, moral rectitude and tenacity”.

Ogbonnia said the late traditional ruler was a “rare gem” who was accomplished “in his chosen fields of endeavour and also in the cultural and traditional duties imposed on him by the circumstances of his birth”.

“In him, was an exceptional blend of the finest Igbo tradition and modernism,” he said.

“The memories of Asagba shall always be remembered as a role model worthy of emulation.

“One of the most amazing of the Asagba mystique is the unique capacity to harmonise the diverse interests and ethnic groups that are resident in Asaba, the Delta State capital and the burgeoning Asaba modernity with the cultural values of the ancient Kingdom.

“And above all, his hock with the grassroots in spite of his intellectual zenith, nobility and meritorious public service.

“The above sublime attributes of His Majesty have found full expressions in the serenity and investment ambience of Asaba since he ascended the throne of his forefathers over 30 years ago.

“His reign has catalysed the transformation of Asaba into a vibrant social and investment hub in the south-south of Nigeria.”

Ogbonnia added that until his death, Edozien was a member of the presidential advisory council of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.