…as top Government officials, council Chiefs, others hit ancient town Tuesday
Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
Prominent sons and daughters of Obomkpa kingdom, including top Government officials in Delta state will converge on the ancient town of Obomkpa, in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta state to witness the historic installation of Chief Darlington Sunday Ofili as the Iyase of Obomkpa kingdom on Tuesday.
The recipient of the exalted traditional chieftaincy title, Chief Ofili, a retired civil servant, and grassroot mobiliser, is known for his leadership role both in Ogbe-Ogene quarters and the entire Obomkpa kingdom.
A renowned administrator, community leader, humble, courageous, intelligent, and unassuming, Chief Darlington Sunday Ofili who will be conferred with the Iyase (The Prime Minister) tomorrow hails from the prestigious and powerful Ogbe-Ogene Quarters, yet his influence and power will be significantly felt in all the major Quarters of Ogbe-Obi, Ogbe-Onei and Ukpatu that make up the Obomkpa kingdom.
His Royal Majesty, the Obi of Obomkpa kingdom, Agbogidi Onyemechi Josiah Kanyinaga 1, is expected to receive the Iyase in his palace where the traditional activities would be climaxed. The Obi -In- Council, Council of Chiefs, Red Cap Chiefs, Heads of Villages and Heads of quarters would be in attendance to witness the important occasion tomorrow Tuesday December 30, 2025 at the Obi’s traditional edifice.
Historically , the event which will attract every member of the agrarian community to Obi’s palace, will have in attendance the oldest in the kingdom, the revered Ogbelani of Obomkpa kingdom, Ezinna Pa. Thomas Abiamefuna Okwuofu.
Market traders, farmers, artisans, and youths are not left out , as businesses will be shut down to allow the people the opportunity to attend the installation ceremony.
The traditional title of Iyase, which is as old as the history of Obomkpa kingdom ,has its root in the ancient Benin Kingdom , a significant chieftaincy title that refers to the traditional Prime Minister, plays a crucial role in the administration of the Kingdom.
The Iyase immediately after assuming the office, would be saddled to head the Onotu whose responsibilities are settling of minor household disputes and advising the Obi on important matters.
The current Obi of Obomkpa , Onyemaechi Josiah Kanyinaga I who will be playing host to a retinue of guests tomorrow, has been on the throne since 2017.
