New monarch succeeds late King Dandelson Douglas Jaja, JEKI V, as PANDEF delegation joins coronation
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Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has joined the people of Opobo and Rivers State in celebrating the coronation of His Majesty, King Charles Douglas Jaja, JEKI VI, as he ascends the ancient throne of Opobo.
The coronation, taking place today, Saturday, September 26, 2026, brings together traditional, cultural and political stakeholders to witness the emergence of the new monarch and celebrate the rich heritage of the Opobo Kingdom.
According to PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, a 30-member delegation comprising members of the Board of Trustees, National Executive Council and representatives of State Executive Councils is participating in the ceremony at the invitation of the Opobo Traditional Council.
King Charles Douglas Jaja succeeds his elder brother, the late King Dandelson Douglas Jaja, JEKI V, who was a founding member of the PANDEF Board of Trustees.
A Throne Rooted in History
PANDEF noted that the new monarch ascends the throne of his forebear, King Jaja of Opobo, whose historical legacy, according to the Forum, extends beyond the Niger Delta and Nigeria to Africa, Europe and the Caribbean.
The succession of King Charles Douglas Jaja therefore represents another chapter in the traditional history and continuing cultural heritage of the Opobo Kingdom.
The Forum described the occasion as a celebration of royalty, culture and pageantry, reflecting the enduring significance of traditional institutions in preserving the history and identity of the Niger Delta.
PANDEF Congratulates New Monarch
In his message, Ambassador Igali congratulated King Charles Douglas Jaja, the people of Opobo and the government and people of Rivers State on the occasion.
PANDEF prayed that the new monarch’s reign would be marked by peace, stability and prosperity.
“PANDEF again extends its congratulations and wishes the new King and people of Opobo, and Rivers State a greatly peaceful and prosperous reign in the hands of God.”
The PANDEF chairman also directed the Forum’s National Secretary and National Publicity Secretary to ensure that the image of the new monarch is prominently featured across PANDEF’s official platforms during the period of the coronation celebrations.
“Again, congratulations,” Ambassador Igali stated.
The coronation marks the beginning of a new chapter in the traditional leadership of Opobo, as King Charles Douglas Jaja, JEKI VI, assumes the ancient throne associated with one of the Niger Delta’s most historically prominent kingdoms.
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