BREAKING NEWS: Amanyanabo of Opobo, King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Passes Away
The Opobo Kingdom in Rivers State, Nigeria, is in mourning following the reported passing of His Majesty King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jeki V, the Amanyanabo and Natural Ruler of Opobo. According to posts on X, the revered monarch died after a brief illness, though official confirmation from the Opobo Kingdom or Rivers State authorities is yet to be released. The news has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond, as King Jaja was a prominent figure known for his leadership, cultural advocacy, and contributions to the development of Opobo and Rivers State.
A Legacy of Leadership
King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja ascended the throne on January 3, 2004, assuming the historic title of Amanyanabo of Opobo, a position that carries the legacy of the legendary King Jaja of Opobo, the kingdom’s founder in 1869. Born on April 28, 1942, King Dandeson was the first son of his predecessor and was groomed in the rich Ibani culture and traditions of Opobo. His educational journey took him from St. Paul’s Primary School in Opobo Town to National Grammar School in Nike, Enugu, and later to Hull College of Higher Education (now Humberside University) in the United Kingdom. By 1977, his deep understanding of Ibani culture and traditional protocols positioned him as a cultural diplomat, a role he embraced throughout his reign.
As the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, King Jaja was a respected voice in regional and national traditional governance. His appointment in 2015 by the Federal Government was acknowledged for his “wealth of experience and capacity to manage men and resources.” He was a regular consultant in the South-South Monarchs Forum, fostering unity among traditional leaders from Rivers State to Edo, and was warmly received in other cultural hubs like Badagry and Ile-Ife.
Contributions to Opobo Kingdom
King Dandeson Douglas Jaja’s reign was marked by a commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Opobo. He played a pivotal role in the kingdom’s participation in the 1977 FESTAC events in Lagos, showcasing Ibani folklore through dance routines. His efforts to highlight Opobo’s strategic location at the mouth of the Imo River, a key trading post in the Niger Delta, underscored his vision for economic and cultural growth. In 2021, he collaborated with the Kaleidoscope Business Project LLC to organize the global virtual celebration of Opobo’s 150th anniversary, promoting tourism and economic synergy with global communities.
The monarch was a staunch supporter of community initiatives, notably the Opobo Marathon, which he actively participated in and endorsed as a platform to showcase the kingdom’s identity and encourage physical fitness. In 2023, he praised the organizers of the 5th Opobo Marathon, expressing optimism about its potential to produce homegrown talents and attract corporate sponsorship.
King Jaja also championed the immortalization of the kingdom’s founder, King Jaja of Opobo (Jubo Jubogha), a 19th-century merchant prince who resisted British colonialism. In recent years, he supported the federal government’s efforts to establish the King Jaja of Opobo Cultural and Historical Centre, a project aimed at preserving the legacy of the kingdom’s founder. His advocacy was instrumental in ensuring that the contributions of King Jaja to Nigeria’s independence and the emancipation of Black people were recognized.
A Life of Grace and Service
In April 2024, King Dandeson celebrated his 82nd birthday with a Thanksgiving Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Opobo Town, where he attributed his long life to God’s grace. Rivers State Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu described him as a “great and humble king” who continued to be a light to Opobo and Rivers State. His testimony during the service reflected his deep faith, stating, “My life has been God’s gift and grace all these years.”
The monarch’s personal milestones included his marriage at age 74, a royal wedding that captured public attention and highlighted his enduring vitality. His engagement with modern media was evident when Nigerian filmmaker Charles Okpaleke and actor Ramsey Nouah met with him in 2021 to acquire rights for a biopic on the life of King Jaja of Opobo, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the kingdom’s history.
A Kingdom in Transition
Opobo Kingdom, founded in 1869 by King Jaja after a breakaway from Bonny, is a significant cultural and historical entity in Nigeria’s Niger Delta. Comprising 14 sections and 67 War Canoe Houses, the kingdom has a rich heritage rooted in the Ndoki clan of the Igbo people and the Ijaw traditions adopted by its founder. King Dandeson’s reign strengthened these cultural ties, positioning Opobo as a beacon of resilience and pride.
As news of his passing spreads, the people of Opobo and Rivers State await official statements regarding funeral arrangements and the process of selecting a successor. The title of Amanyanabo, steeped in history and tradition, will continue to symbolize the kingdom’s enduring legacy.
Awaiting Confirmation
While posts on X indicate that King Dandeson Douglas Jaja passed away after a brief illness, this information remains inconclusive without verification from official sources. The lack of primary documentation underscores the need for caution in accepting unconfirmed reports. Those seeking further details are encouraged to monitor reputable news outlets or await statements from the Opobo Kingdom or Rivers State government.
A Monarch Remembered
King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jeki V, leaves behind a legacy of cultural preservation, community development, and traditional leadership. His contributions to Opobo’s visibility on local and global stages, coupled with his humility and faith, have earned him a place in the hearts of many. As tributes begin to pour in, the Amanyanabo of Opobo will be remembered as a steward of history and a guardian of the kingdom’s proud heritage.
