Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has charged the people of Opobo Kingdom to focus on celebrating the life and achievements of the late Amayanabo, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, rather than mourning his passage.
Governor Fubara who made this call on Saturday 11 April 2026 during the funeral service held at Saint Paul’s Anglican Church in Opobo described the late monarch as a symbol of peace, dignity and fulfilled purpose.
“The late King lived beyond the biblical three score and ten, attaining the age of 83 through a life defined by humility, gentleness and selfless service to his people,” Fubara stated.
While stressing that the enduring legacy of the late Amayanabo lies not in mourning his death, but in how he will be remembered by future generations, the governor commended the late King for successfully maintaining peace in Opobo Kingdom throughout a prolonged succession dispute that lasted over two decades.
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“He was a father figure who treated everyone with love and fairness, regardless of the challenges,” he added.
Governor Fubara also highlighted the remarkable political milestones recorded in Opobo Kingdom during the late monarch’s reign, noting that the kingdom produced both a Deputy Governor and a Governor of Rivers State, an achievement he said history will never forget.
He urged the people of the kingdom to sustain the peace the late King laboured to uphold, stressing that the responsibility now rests on the living to continue the story of unity and progress.
Addressing the Amayanabo-elect, Governor Fubara advised him not to merely step into the late King’s shoes, but to carve out his own legacy built on service, integrity and dedication to the welfare of his people.
The governor warned against any form of internal conflict amongst the royal family noting that while material assets could be inherited, personal success must be earned.
