Governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Delta State,Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, has commended the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, for what he described as remarkable achievements and promotion of peace in the kingdom in his first two years on the throne.

Iyovwaye, in a congratulatory message marking the Asagba’s second coronation anniversary, said the monarch had demonstrated that traditional leadership goes beyond the preservation of customs and traditions to include the welfare and development of the people.

He said, “Two years may look short in the life of a throne, but what you have done in two years has been remarkable.”

According to him, the Asagba, who ascended the throne in October 2024 as a distinguished scholar and Senior Advocate, had brought his experience and wisdom to bear on the traditional institution.

“You came to the throne in October, 2024 as a distinguished scholar, a Senior Advocate, a man of wisdom – and you have brought that wisdom to bear on the sacred stool of Asaba,” he said.

Iyovwaye highlighted some of the projects undertaken during the monarch’s reign, including the 1,000-capacity Event Center at the permanent palace, the Smart Nursery and Primary School at Akwuose, which was built and handed over to the state, the beautification of Ogbeke Square and Kainebisi Roundabout, as well as the new cemetery.

He said the projects demonstrated the monarch’s commitment to initiatives capable of improving the lives of residents and indigenes of Asaba.

“In just two years, you have shown us what traditional governance truly means. It is not just about customs and tradition. It is about the people’s welfare, and we have seen it,” Iyovwaye said.

Beyond physical development, the NDC governorship candidate identified peace and unity as some of the major features of the Asagba’s reign.

“But more than the buildings, Your Majesty, we thank you for the peace you have brought,” he said.

Iyovwaye described Asaba as “today one of the most peaceful state capitals in Nigeria,” noting that indigenes and non-indigenes as well as people from different ethnic backgrounds had continued to coexist in the city.

He attributed the development to the monarch’s approach to leadership, saying, “That is not an accident. That is because you have chosen dialogue over division, unity over discord, and justice over sentiment.”

He also recalled the monarch’s message during Peace Day, quoting him as saying, “peace is the industry we must harness.”

According to Iyovwaye, the Asagba had also promoted greater inclusion in the traditional institution by opening the palace to more people and recognising women in leadership.

“You have also opened the doors of the palace. You have made our mothers and daughters Chiefs in their own right. You have reminded us that Asaba’s future must include everybody,” he said.

While congratulating the monarch, Iyovwaye prayed for continued divine wisdom, good health, longevity and a peaceful reign.

“May Almighty God continue to grant you long life, good health, sound mind, and divine wisdom. May your reign be long and peaceful. May Asaba Kingdom continue to prosper, grow, and be a light to Delta State and Nigeria in general,” he said.

He added, “Many people sit on thrones, but few truly reign. Your Majesty, you are truly reigning.”

Iyovwaye extended his congratulations to the Asagba, his wife, the Okpoho Eze, Dr Valerie Azinge, SAN, the royal family and the people of Asaba.

He concluded with the traditional praise, “Nna Agu! Nna Agu! Nna Agu! Long live the Obi! May his reign be peaceful and prosperous!”

“Long live the Asagba!

Long live Asaba Kingdom!

Long live Delta State!”