Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN, was officially named the 14th Asagba designate of the Asaba Kingdom in Delta State yesterday.
The announcement was made by the Ochendu Asagba, Professor Anthony Edozien, during a gathering of the Asagba-in-Council and community members at the Asagba palace, following a selection process involving the kingdom’s five quarters.
Azinge, a law professor, emerged as the chosen candidate among nine contenders presented to the Asagba-in-Council by the Okpala-Ukwu Uggbomata for the royal position.
While pronouncing Azinge as the Asagba designate, the Ochendu Asagba, represented by Louis Edozien, emphasized that the selection process was transparent and conducted without dispute. He stated, “There is no conflict; we have all agreed unanimously for him to lead us.”
He further explained that while Asaba has democratic elements, the kingdom itself is not a democracy. “The power of the Asagba is sacred, and by the grace of God, I hold that power. It is my solemn duty to announce the successor for my late father,” he added.
The Ochendu Asagba affirmed that he was guided by the collective wishes of the Asaba people. “Asaba has clearly expressed their choice, and in line with the authority vested in me by the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, I declare Epiphany Azinge as the 14th Asagba of Asaba designate,” he said.
According to Asaba customs and traditions, the rites leading to Azinge’s installation will commence immediately and involve significant roles from the Oni-Ahaba, traditional chiefs, and Okpala-Ukwus. Until the installation is complete, the Ochendu Asagba will continue to hold the authority of the Asagba.
Professor Azinge, SAN, previously served as the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies from 2009 to 2014. He currently represents Nigeria and Africa as a judge on the Commonwealth Arbitral Tribunal in London, UK. Azinge is also the founder and senior partner at the Abuja-based law firm Azinge & Azinge, where his wife, Valerie Azinge, SAN, is a partner. He holds the title of the first Okilolo (Philosopher) of Asaba.