The family of Obi Chukwuka
Okonjo, the late 91-year-old King of Ogwashi-Uku community in Aniocha South
Local Government Area of Delta State, are currently fighting over the unauthorized
announcement of his death.
The late King who is the
father of former minister of finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, was announced dead
last week.
Patrick Okonjo, an uncle to
the former minister, accused her of high-jacking the functions of the family by
making the announcement.
He also revealed that the
family ought to make the announcement and also announce her younger brother as
the late king’s successor.
Their statement read in
part, “It is sacrilegious of Ogwashi-Uku custom and tradition for a princess to
announce the transition of a monarch or proclaim another. It is a purely
traditional function.
“Late Okonjo was never an
Obi of Ogwashi-Uku under our tradition but a mere regent. Accordingly, his
first child cannot be Obi as deceitfully inferred by Ngozi.”
The Royal Family however
debunked claims of Obi Ifechukwude Okonjo being installed wrongly as the King
of Ogwashi-Uku community.
“We want to make this
known: Patrick Okonjo does not speak for the family; he speaks only for himself
as he has always done” a statement released by the acting Diokpa; Umu Obi
Obahai Royal family, Prince Emmanuel Ohei and others read in part.
The statement also revealed
that the new Obi will soon begin his reign after traditional rites are
concluded.
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