Cheers, as Odekpe Ideke Kingdom Crowns High Chief Jude Okasili, Oduma VIII

It was three days of festivities - eating, drinking and an array of traditional dances - as Odekpe Ideke kingdom honoured one of it's outstanding son, Jude Chukwuemeka Okasili, with the high title of Oduma VIII. The Oduma dynasty has endured for 251 years, since 1771.

Beginning with traditional coronation rites at Okpaikilika quarters of the ancient community, on Monday, December 26, 2022, the ceremony climaxed with the formal capping of High Chief Okasili by the traditional ruler of Odekpe Ideke, His Royal Majesty, Okakwu Emma Onyia.

The events were concluded on Wednesday, December 28, 2022, with a grand reception, after a Thanksgiving Mass at Mary Vianni Catholic Church, DBS Road, Asaba.

Dignitaries, who came from different parts of the country to grace the unique coronation, praised High Chief Okasili for his deep knowledge of Ogbaru customs, ethos and tradition, despite his standing as an international businessman of repute, with interests in furniture and joinery, real estate and hospitality.

Among the dignitaries who attended the coronation, amongst others, were High Chief Patrick Azi, Onwa Onicha Ukwu, High Chief Anthony Nwabuotu, Ide of Aligbo Kingdom, Issele Ukwu, High Chief(Engr) Daniel Chiazor, Mmilioroedo 1 of Odekpe Ideke Kingdom, and Isagba Ajie of Odekpe, High Chief Odebe Nwawuna.

Others were the member representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency, Prince Chukwuka Onyema, former member representing the same constituency and Labour Party candidate for the same position in the 2023 general elections, Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, and his counterpart for State House of Assembly, Barrister Nonso Henry Nwaebeli.

Also in attendance were Chief(Dr) Jojo Onyia, Idejiuno of Odekpe, High Chief Marshal Onyia, Oshimmili of Odekpe, and High Chief Dr.Chike Onyia, Nwajiugonnia.