The ancient Agbor Kingdom reverberated with joy and celebration as Dein Keagborekuzi I, the youngest monarch born to rule, marked his 47th birthday. The festivities, steeped in tradition and regal splendor, captivated the hearts of the Agbor people.
Keagborekuzi’s story is one of destiny and resilience. Born on June 29, 1977, he ascended the throne at the tender age of two, following the unexpected demise of his father, Obi Ikenchukwu I. Tradition dictated that the young prince become the child king of Agbor, a role bestowed on him by destiny was embraced by many with grace and purpose.
Keagborekuzi’s name itself carries significance. “Keagborekuzi” translates to “What is Agbor saying again?” no doubt, is a fitting inquiry for a ruler who would later leave an indelible mark on his kingdom. After his coronation, he embarked on a remarkable journey. Flown to the United Kingdom in 1981, he spent nearly two decades abroad, honing his intellect and broadening his horizons. During his absence, a regent governed Agbor. In 2001, he returned, taking up the mantle of leadership.
His homecoming marked a pivotal moment in Agbor’s history, as the young monarch assumed the governance of the kingdom he was destined to rule, and since then Keagborekuzi’s reign has been marked by wisdom and diplomacy. In 2003, he played a pivotal role in resolving a dispute between the Agbor-Obi Youth Movement and the police. In 2020, he joined fellow monarchs in banning herdsmen activities within their domains, responding to security concerns. Additionally, he pledged to combat human trafficking in his domain by collaborating with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). As the Chancellor of the University of Ilorin from 2006 to 2015, he championed education and intellectual growth, earning accolades for his contributions to academia and leadership.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Dein of Agbor, HRM Benjamin Ikenchukwu, Keagborekuzi 1, on his 47th birth anniversary.
Governor Oborevwori, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, praised the Agbor monarch for his remarkable contributions to the development of his Kingdom, the state, and the nation.
The Governor noted that the Dein deserved to be celebrated at 47 for the devoted and inspired leadership module he had provided for the people of Agbor over the years.
Oborevwori said: “On behalf of the Government and people of Delta, I warmly felicitate with HRM Benjamin Ikenchukwu, Keagborekuzi I, CON, the Dein of Agbor Kingdom, on the occasion of his 47th birth anniversary on June 29.
“You have continued to lead your people with love and compassion as a revered king, and this has made you even more loved and respected by them and others even outside your kingdom.
“On your 47th birth anniversary, it is my prayer that the Almighty God will continue to enable you with health, wisdom and discernment to lead the customary business of your great kingdom, even as we anticipate your continuous invaluable contributions to the advancement of our beloved state and nation”.
Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, who extended his heartfelt congratulations to the monarch on the occasion of his 47th birthday anniversary, conveyed through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, and released in Asaba, the Delta State capital, lauded the Dein’s impactful reign. He highlighted that the Dein’s unique approach and royal style have significantly elevated the traditional institution’s visibility not just in Delta State but across Nigeria.
“Your Majesty, on behalf of the Honourable Members and staff of the Delta State House of Assembly, I extend warm felicitations to you on the occasion of your 47th birthday anniversary,” Guwor stated.
The Speaker described the birthday as a celebration of life and leadership, expressing his hopes for continued peace and progress in the Agbor Kingdom under the Dein’s guidance.
In a similar vein, Hon. Engr. Doris Uboh, a former member of the House of Representatives and Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, also sent warm regards to the Dein of Agbor Kingdom in Ika South LGA of Delta State on his birthday, praising his diverse qualities and commitment to fostering harmony.
In a press release, Hon. Uboh expressed her heartfelt congratulations to the esteemed Dein, hailing his Royal Majesty as a unifying figure and highlighting his exceptional qualities.
She stated, “Dear Dein, it is with great joy and enthusiasm that I, along with the people of Agbor and Ika land, celebrate the illustrious monarch, our source of pride and symbol of unity, HRM Dr. Benjamin Ikenchukwu Gbenoba CON, Keagborekuzi 1, on the occasion of your birthday.
As the sun set over Agbor, the cheers echoed: “Dooo DEIN!” A monarch born to rule, Dein Keagborekuzi I continues to shape the destiny of Agbor Kingdom with unwavering dedication.