Business activities in Asaba and its environs were crippled on Tuesday following the official announcement of the passing of the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Chike Edozien.
Schools, shops and other business activities were shut down just as movements in and out of Asaba were restricted following the passing of the monarch who was aged 100 years.
Our correspondent observed that the popular Ogbogonogo and Oko markets, among others, were under lock and key as early as 5 am in preparation to announce the death of the 13th Asagba of Asaba.
At the palace, there was a procession led by the Odogwu of Asaba, Chief Nwanze Odua, who dressed in red attire and danced around the palace.
Announcing the passing of the monarch at around 5 pm, the Onihe of Asaba, Obi Ubaka Attor, said, “Iroko has fallen, the Asagba of Asaba has gone.”
A statement by the Palace Secretary, Chief Patrick Ndili, announcing the passing of the monarch, read: “With heavy hearts, we announce the transition unto eternal glory our highly revered royal father, Prof. Chike Edozien, the Asagba of Asaba.
“He was aged 100 years and the 13th Asagba of Asaba who ascended the throne on July 1, 1991.”
He said the burial arrangements would be announced by the family and the Asaba Kingdom in due time.
The announcement was followed by the shooting of 21 cannons.
Attor announced the decoration of Asagba’s first, Mr Joseph Edozien Jr. as the regent.
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