The ancient Opobo Kingdom in Rivers State demonstrated rare institutional discipline and cultural depth on December 31, 2025, as it navigated a moment of profound loss with remarkable order, announcing the passing of its monarch and enthroning a successor within the same day.

At dawn, the Amanyanabo-in-Council formally declared the death of His Majesty King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, JP, Jeki V, DSSRS, CFR, the Treaty King and Natural Ruler of Opobo Kingdom, marking the end of a reign that began in 2004.

King Dandeson Douglas Jaja widely regarded as a devoted custodian of Ibani tradition, whose leadership strengthened unity, revived cultural heritage, promoted education, and advanced community development across the kingdom while preserving its historic values.

His reign was seen as a continuation of the ideals laid down by Opobo’s founder, King Jaja of Opobo, the 19th-century merchant prince whose insistence on autonomy and structured governance shaped the kingdom’s enduring identity.

Despite the solemn mood that followed the monarch’s passing, Opobo’s traditional institutions acted swiftly, guided by established Ibani customs and the authority of the Council of Alapu (Chiefs), to ensure there was no vacuum in leadership.

By late afternoon, the council convened a traditional election among eligible royal candidates, underscoring the kingdom’s belief that stability and continuity are central to effective traditional governance.

Three princes contested the succession: Alabo Fredrick Sunday Jaja, who received one vote; Alabo Reuben Saturday Jaja, who secured seven votes; and Alabo Charles Mac Pepple, who emerged with nine votes, a clear majority.

Following the conclusion of the process, Alabo Charles Mac Pepple was proclaimed His Majesty Elect, King Charles Douglas Mac Pepple Jaja, Jeki VI, Treaty King, Amanyanabo, and Natural Ruler of Opobo Kingdom.

The seamless transition, completed within hours of the former monarch’s passing, highlighted the maturity and resilience of Opobo’s traditional governance system and drew attention to its capacity for orderly leadership change.

Founded in 1869 after a break from the Bonny Kingdom, Opobo rose as a major commercial and cultural power in the Niger Delta, with its institutions built on consensus, clearly defined authority, and respect for tradition.

As the kingdom enters a period of mourning for the late King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, the emergence of a new monarch has provided reassurance of continuity, reflecting a living tradition capable of guiding Opobo through loss, renewal, and the demands of modern leadership.