Opobo Kingdom Crowns King Charles Jaja, Welcomes Jonathan, Olu of Warri

Opobo Kingdom in Rivers State recently hosted a significant event, the coronation of its new monarch, King Charles Douglas Jaja, who will reign as Jeki VI, Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom. The grand ceremony saw the attendance of prominent figures, including former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, who arrived around 11:15 am.

Also present at the historic occasion was the Rivers State Governor, represented by his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu. Joining them were former Rivers State Deputy Governor, Sir Gabriel Toby, and his wife, Dame Christie. The event also drew traditional rulers from across the nation, notably the Igwe of Onitsha, King Nnaemeka Obi, and the Olu of Warri, alongside various other government officials.

King Charles Douglas Jaja steps into the shoes of the late King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, who passed away last year and was laid to rest in April 2026. Prior reports by PUNCH had indicated that the ancient kingdom had set a September date for the enthronement of its new king. The selection process concluded in December 2025, when King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja was elected as the sixth Amanyanabo, following the demise of his predecessor, who also served as the former Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers.

Speaking at a press conference in Port Harcourt, Princewill Dappa, the Vice Chairman of the Opobo Council of Chiefs, affirmed that all necessary arrangements had been finalised for what he described as a momentous and historic occasion within the kingdom. Dappa outlined a series of activities leading up to the main coronation, which was ultimately held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, in Opobo Town, situated in the Opobo Local Government Area of Rivers State.