Bayelsa Community Moves To Crown King After 20-Year Lull

The Akassa clan in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State is set to end over two decades of leadership vacuum with plans to crown a new Amayanabo before the close of the year.

This followed the election of His Royal Highness, Moses Theophilus-Kenibara VII, the Ama-dabo of Moko-ama Kingdom, as chairman of the Akassa Clan Council of Chiefs. He takes over from Chief Newton Igbani-Okuru of Kongho community, who successfully completed two terms.

An 11-man executive drawn from across the clan was also elected to steer the affairs of the council. In his acceptance speech, King Theophilus urged the various royal houses to close ranks and embrace peace, noting that the absence of a paramount ruler had hindered progress in Akassa for far too long.

“There is no victor, no vanquished in this election,” he said, pledging to pursue a written constitution that would provide direction for the council’s activities. The monarch also promised to partner with traditional rulers, stakeholders, the state government and oil firms operating in the area to drive development.

The election, conducted in a peaceful atmosphere, was witnessed by 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 Brass council chairman, Hon. Lucky Febo.

Theophilus, who polled 131 votes, defeated Chief Stephen Ambrose-Moni and Chief Saturday Akimi-Omohuo, who scored two and three votes respectively. Chief Friday Karikumo-Igoinheiye of Okumbiri-beleu was elected vice chairman, while Chief Victor Consul-Amahie of Erewebie emerged secretary.

Other elected officers include Chief Mark Enugu-Abobia (assistant secretary), Chief Ibidi Onungo Dino-Criston (treasurer), Ayibakuro Johnbull-Doimongha (financial secretary), Chief Sam Epelle-Godo (public relations officer), Solomon Igbani-Harine (provost), Chief Iwotorubo Daru Ambrose-Silver (auditor), Chief Bartholomew Ayawei-Wolo (adviser) and Chief Jonnie-Suotariga (adviser).