From Blessing Douglas, Port Harcourt
The traditional institution in Kalabari Kingdom has visited the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to formally inform him of the demise of the Amanyanabo of Kalabari, King Theophilus JT Princewill.
The Kalabari Se Kobiri, led by the Regent of the kingdom, Chief Charles Numbere and Chairman of the Central Working Committee for the late monarch’s burial, Prince Tonye Princewill, visited the governor at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
Speaking, Governor Fubara described the late King Princewill, as one of the leaders that can tell the truth at all times no matter whose ox is gored, saying his disposition was a symbol of true Ijaw.
The governor, who applauded the Central Working Committee for a job well done so far, called on Kalabari leaders to come together to ensure a successful transition for the late monarch.
He declared that he is a full-blooded Ijaw contrary to speculations that he is not a complete Ijaw.
Fubara said: “Let me say, I am happy that the media is here. There have been speculations everywhere that Fubara is not a complete Ijaw.
“The truth is that Ijaw is not complete without Opobo. You can’t talk about Ijaw struggle without the Opobo and Kalabari. For the records, I am full-blooded Ijsw, up to my bones.”
Earlier in his speech, Numbere said the aim of the visit was to formally inform the governor that the late monarch would be buried on November 30, 2023.
The Regent said: “You already know that your and our father, King Professor Theophilus Princewill, the Amanyanabo of Kalabari, has joined his ancestors.
“We came to tell you first hand, as tradition demands, that King Professor Theophilus Princewill, Amanyanabo of Kalabari will be laid to rest on November 30, 2023.
“We pray you to be available on November 30, 2023 at Buguma City, not just to grace the occasion, but to lead the funeral.”
Also speaking, co-chairman of the committee, Chief David Briggs, said: “We were received; we are going back happy. But we cast and bind those making troubles for the government. We cast and bind all there activities.”
Picture: Late King TJT Princewill (Amachree XI), Amayanabo of Kalabari Kingdom
