Bayelsa Community To Install King After Two Decades

After more than 20 years without a paramount ruler, the people of Akassa clan in Brass local government area of Bayelsa State have resolved to unite and install an Amayanabo before the end of this year.

The move comes as His Royal Highness, Moses Theophilus-Kenibara VII, the Ama-dabo of Moko-ama Kingdom, was duly elected as the new chairman of the Akassa Clan Council of Chiefs.

The monarch succeeds Chief Newton Igbani-Okuru of Kongho community, who served two terms as chairman. Also, a new 11-member executive was elected to represent different communities across the clan.

In his acceptance speech, King Theophilus called for peace and unity among the people of Akassa. He said he would push for a written constitution to guide the activities of the council before the end of this year.

He also urged the royal houses to put aside differences and ensure that an Amayanabo is crowned this year, stressing that the absence of a paramount ruler for two decades has slowed down progress in the clan.

The monarch pledged to work with traditional rulers, stakeholders, the state government and oil companies operating in the area to advance the development of Akassa. He maintained that “there is no victor, no vanquish” in the election.

The election was observed by top dignitaries, including the speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Ebiere Jones and the chairman of Brass local government area, Hon Lucky Febo.

King Theophilus, who won with 131 votes, defeated Chief Stephen Ambrose-Moni and Chief Saturday Akimi-Omohuo, who scored two and three votes respectively in the peaceful election.

According to the results, Chief Friday Karikumo-Igoinheiye of Okumbiri-beleu community emerged as the vice chairman, while Chief Victor Consul-Amahie of Erewebie became the secretary. Chief Mark Enugu-Abobia of Opu-Okumbiri will serve as the assistant secretary while Chief Ibidi Onungo Dino-Criston of Minibie was elected as the treasurer.

Others elected include Ayibakuro Johnbull-Doimongha of Fishtown as the financial secretary, Chief Sam Epelle-Godo of Buo-ama as the public relations officer, Solomon Igbani-Harine of Oginibiri as provost, Chief Iwotorubo Daru Ambrose-Silver of Buo-ama as auditor while Chief Bartholomew Ayawei-Wolo of Sangana and Chief Jonnie-Suotariga of Minibeleu community were elected as advisers.