Renowned Legal Scholar Emerges as 14th Asagba of Asaba

Prof. Epiphany Azinge, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), has been selected as the 14th Asagba of Asaba. His coronation is expected to take place in the near future.

The selection of Prof. Azinge follows a rigorous process conducted by the Asagba-in-Council, which deemed him the most qualified among ten contenders vying for the esteemed throne. Among the competitors were notable figures such as Mr. Tony Ogugua Konwea, Prof. Emmanuel Onwuka, and Ogbuechi Chinedu Esealuka.

Prof. Azinge hails from Ugbomanta quarters, one of the five quarters (ebos) with the traditional right to produce the Asagba. His selection follows the passing of the previous Asagba, Obi Prof. Chike Edozien, who was a highly respected leader.

The Ochendo Ahaba (Regent), Dr. Anthony Edozien, officially announced the results of the selection on Sunday at the former Palace of the Asagba of Asaba in Ezenei quarters. The announcement was made in accordance with the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, which governs such matters in Delta State.

At the time of the announcement, celebratory dance troupes were already performing at the residence of the Asagba-designate, Prof. Azinge, marking the beginning of the festivities.

Prof. Azinge has also commenced the process of taking the Obi title, a crucial step in becoming the Asagba. The Obi title, which is the highest traditional social rank among the Ahaba people, signifies his formal entry into the Obiship institution. This process, steeped in tradition and custom, began on August 5, 2024, and includes several stages that will culminate in a ceremony at the Udo sacred ekpele site, where he will don the indigenous anklet known as “eli li ukwu.”

As part of this traditional process, Prof. Azinge’s spouse, Dr. Valerie Azinge (SAN), will also receive the title of Okpoho Eze, aligning her with the Obiship position.

The journey towards Prof. Azinge’s coronation as the Asagba of Asaba is ongoing, but with his recent achievements, he is well-positioned to ascend the throne and lead the people of Asaba into a new era.