By Patrick Ochei
The Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Asagba (Prof.) Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, has conferred the chieftaincy title of Odenigwe Ahaba (the conspicuous one in a crowd) on the world-acclaimed environmentalist, popularly known as the “Desert Warrior,” Chief Dr. Newton Jibunoh.
The installation ceremony took place at the Asagba Palace on October 3, 2026, in a grand celebration of Asaba’s rich cultural heritage.
The Asagba, who is marking the second anniversary of his reign, made the historic gesture of conferring his first chieftaincy title since ascending the throne two years ago on a non-indigene.
He eulogised Dr. Jibunoh, highlighting his achievements and contributions on the international stage and affirming that he was deserving of a royal seat within the Asaba Kingdom.
According to the Asagba, “I made it clear not to confer chieftaincy titles until 2027. Though that decision was not cast in stone, I had to shift ground because of the Desert Warrior, Dr. Newton Jibunoh.
“This is the first in my reign. Today, I feel reconnected to my forebears. I was at the Nelson Mandela Resort when the premonition to make Dr. Newton Jibunoh a Chief of Asaba came.
“No non-Asaba indigene becomes an Olinzele in Asaba without permission from his kingdom. I sought approval from his king, who gave a nod for me to proceed. You made it easy for me based on your good standing with your kingdom. You are more than qualified to hold a title in Asaba.
“By this conferment, you are the first non-indigene to be so recognised as an Olinzele under my reign. You have taken the oath of allegiance and oath of office, confirming that you have become one of us in all ramifications of tradition. And I also thank you for bringing Nigeria to Asaba,” Asagba Azinge said.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Jibunoh expressed profound appreciation to the Asagba for the honour bestowed on him on the memorable occasion.
Jibunoh said he was deeply humbled and overwhelmed by the dignifying honour of ascending the exalted seat of Olinzele Ahaba.
He said, “This honour is not about what I have done, as some may ask, ‘What has he done to deserve this exalted position in Asaba?’ Unfortunately, that question is not for me to answer. But all I know is that I will strive to do that which is befitting and pleasing, to retain the confidence reposed in me.”
The reception later held at the Nelson Mandela Garden and Park, where the crème de la crème of Nigerian society gathered to celebrate the new Asaba chief.
Among those in attendance were Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka; Hon. Bridget Anyafulu; Mr. Dele Adegigba; children of the late Emir Ado Bayero of Kano; chiefs of Issele-Uku Kingdom representing Obi Nduka; traditional chiefs and people of Akwukwu-Igbo; Brigadier-General Hassan Katsina (rtd.); Mr. Sonny Irabor; Mr. Rufai Useni; Chief Brian Odiakaose; and several other dignitaries.
