Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has formally presented the certificate of recognition and staff of office to King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, Jeki VI, completing the state government’s formal recognition of the new monarch of Opobo Kingdom.

The presentation took place on Friday, October 2, 2026, following the death of the previous monarch, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, and the subsequent selection and coronation of his successor.

King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja was crowned on September 26 at King Jaja Square in Opobo Town, becoming the sixth Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom. He succeeded the late King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, who died in 2025 and was buried in April 2026.

Fubara, who is an indigene of Opobo, explained that his absence from the September 26 coronation was not politically motivated. He said he was away because he had been assigned to Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Fubara was indeed listed as part of the high-level Nigerian delegation led by Vice President Kashim Shettima for the 81st UNGA.

The governor said the formal recognition of the new monarch represented the final stage of a process that followed the death and burial of the former king.

He also recalled the prolonged legal disputes surrounding the traditional institution, saying his administration, alongside other stakeholders, contributed to resolving issues connected with the selection and installation of the new monarch.

Fubara congratulated King Charles Jaja and urged him to use his position to promote unity across Opobo Kingdom, including among people who may not have supported his emergence during the selection process.

The governor also outlined areas he expects the new traditional institution to focus on, particularly education, healthcare and the development of small and medium-scale businesses.

According to Fubara, improvements in these areas could contribute to better living conditions and help address some of the social challenges confronting communities.

He further urged the monarch to maintain a firm position against criminality and avoid allowing personal or family relationships to interfere with security responsibilities.

Beyond the traditional institution, Fubara called on title holders and wealthy indigenes of Opobo to contribute more directly to the development of the kingdom rather than limiting their roles to participation in ceremonies.

He challenged them to work collectively towards delivering visible development projects in Opobo within the next year.

The governor assured the new monarch of the Rivers State Government’s continued support and urged the Opobo Council of Traditional Rulers and other stakeholders to cooperate with him in advancing the kingdom.

In his response, King Charles Jaja described the recognition as a responsibility entrusted to him by the government and people of Rivers State.

The monarch pledged to promote peace, unity and development in Opobo and the wider Rivers State, promising to discharge his responsibilities with justice and dignity.

He also said Opobo would continue to serve as a partner in efforts to promote peace and development across the state.

The new king referenced the legacy of King Jaja, the historic founder of Opobo, saying he intended to build on that heritage through service, inclusion and development.

The September coronation attracted several prominent traditional and political figures, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.

With the presentation of the staff of office and certificate of recognition, King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, Jeki VI, now formally holds state recognition as the traditional ruler of Opobo Kingdom, following his coronation last month.