15-year-old boy becomes king in Delta following his father’s death

Fifteen-year-old Chukwuka Noah became Obi (king) Akaeze I of Ubulu-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State on Saturday.



Obi Akaeze I succeeded his father, the late Obi Akaeze Edward Ofolue III, who was kidnapped and subsequently murdered by gunmen in January.

The presentation of the 15-year-old followed the fulfilment of different rites that led to his crowning as king by the kingmakers of Ubulu-Uku.

He was first presented to the members of the royal family before the presentation to the council of elders at the palace.

The brief ceremony was attended by prominent citizens of the kingdom, including a member of the House of Representatives representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Mrs. Onyemaechi Mrakpor and the President-General of Ubulu-Uku Development Union, Mr. Jones Ofunne.

Also in attendance was the Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Area, Mr. Isaac Anwuzia, traditional chiefs and title holders, religious leaders, women, youths and other stakeholders in the kingdom.

Speaking on the significance of the ceremony, Secretary of the Palace, Mr. Joseph Obazei described it as “wonderful in our time.” He said, “This is a young man who was not even looking up to this position because his father was young and vibrant. Unfortunately, this bad event occurred.

“He has now been thrust upon the throne taking up the mantle of his late father. Ubulu-Uku people are very happy that we have somebody who has taken up the throne because the king never dies.

“When it appears that there is no king, there is already a king. That is what has just happened.” Obazei told our correspondent that in Ubulu-Uku tradition, there were not too many rites to the installation of a new king.

He said, “By our tradition, you can wake up in the morning and see the heir apparent sitting on the throne and issuing commands which will be obeyed. That will tell that something happened in the night and something has happened now.

“So, this young man has taken over the stool of his father, and now he can begin to give direction to the town.”

Anwuzia assured the new king and people of Ubulu-Uku of his administration’s support, saying that measures were already being taken to ensure the presentation of staff of office by the state government.