A 23-year-old Microbiology undergraduate of Delta State University, Abraka, Prince Daniel Afamefune Chukwujindu, has been installed as the new traditional ruler of Ekwuoma Kingdom in Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State.
Daniel formally assumed the throne on Thursday as the 11th Ajeh of Ekwuoma, succeeding his late father, King Chinedu Samuel Chukwujindu.
He will reign under the traditional title Ezeagu-Ukpo II, following the completion of the burial rites of his father, who served as the 10th Ajeh, Ezeagu-Ukpo I.
The new monarch’s emergence followed Ekwuoma’s traditional succession arrangement, which is based on primogeniture.
Under the system, the first son of a reigning monarch is recognised as the heir to the throne.
Community leaders said the tradition has been observed in Ekwuoma since the kingdom was established nearly four centuries ago.
Daniel’s installation marks the conclusion of his father’s 18-year reign and the beginning of a new chapter under one of the youngest monarchs in the history of the kingdom.
The enthronement ceremony attracted traditional rulers, chiefs, community leaders, government representatives, academics, members of the royal family, friends and other well-wishers.
Traditional rites were conducted to formally transfer the royal institution from the late monarch to his successor.
Prayers and goodwill messages were also offered for the success of the new reign.
In his address, Daniel expressed appreciation to the people of Ekwuoma for accepting him as their traditional ruler.
He pledged to preserve the customs and traditions of the kingdom while working towards peace, unity and development.
The young Ajeh also called on sons and daughters of Ekwuoma to support the traditional institution and avoid disagreements that could undermine the progress of the community.
He further advocated stronger cooperation among the traditional institution, government and residents in finding solutions to challenges confronting the kingdom.
The Chairman of the Ekwuoma Council of Chiefs and Orikeze of the kingdom, Chief Ernest Njokede, congratulated the new monarch and expressed confidence in his ability to handle the responsibilities of the throne.
Njokede prayed for wisdom, strength, good health and divine guidance for Daniel as he begins his reign.
He also urged residents to give the new Ajeh their support and place the interests of Ekwuoma above personal differences.
Njokede paid tribute to the late King Chinedu Samuel Chukwujindu, describing his 18-year reign as one marked by service, peace and concern for the welfare of his people.
He called on the community to preserve the legacy of the late monarch while supporting his successor.
READ MORE:Â INEC, JAMB Strengthen Collaboration On Biometric Verification
According to him, the progress of Ekwuoma should not be left solely to the traditional ruler and chiefs.
He emphasised that community development requires the collective participation of all sons and daughters of the kingdom, as well as other residents.
The Council of Chiefs also stressed the importance of protecting Ekwuoma’s heritage and maintaining unity among its people.
As Daniel begins his reign while continuing his university education, attention is expected to focus on how the young monarch balances his academic pursuits with the responsibilities of traditional leadership.
