The leadership and stakeholders of the Arogbo Ijaw Ibe Youth Council (AIIYC) have formally presented the newly elected 2nd national executive Council, led by Comr. Utanghan Ebikontei, and the 2nd mobile Parliament to His Imperial Majesty, Pere (Barr.) Zacheaus Doubra Egbunu (JP), Opukutu III, the Agadagba and paramount ruler of Arogbo Kingdom.
The presentation, which took place yesterday at the King’s palace, formed part of the council’s established relationship with the traditional institution and was aimed at formally introducing the newly elected leadership to the Agadagba for royal recognition, guidance and blessings.
The development comes shortly after the successful election of the new leadership and marks a significant transition in the affairs of the youth council, with the incoming administration expected to assume responsibility for the next phase of the council’s activities.
The delegation was led by the outgoing national president, Comr. Shoki Gbadia, alongside the Speaker of the 1st Mobile Parliament, Comr. Naweri Gbebomini, Comr. Varnish Matthew and other stakeholders of the council.
Addressing the palace, the delegation emphasised the importance of the traditional institution to the AIIYC, noting that Agadagba has continued to play a fatherly and stabilising role in the affairs of the council since its establishment.
The presentation was witnessed by prominent members of the Arogbo Ibe Council of Chiefs, including High Chief Emomotimi Birinibofa, the Ofini-ege of Egbesubiri and Secretary to the Council of Chiefs; High Chief Masaranwo Matthew; High Chief Kepo Kuetei, Peregboluwei of Arogbo Ibe; High Chief Egbekun Brigade, Egbesuwei of Egbesubiri Quarters; High Chief Mike Egbunu, Sukorolawei of Erubiru and Special Assistant to the Agadagba on Special Duties; High Chief Pius Kpejoh, Palace Secretary; and High Chief Japhet Iborri, the Agwo of Agowbiri.
During the visit, the council also formally sought the royal convenience of the Agadagba to officiate at the inauguration of the newly elected executive and parliamentary leadership.
The inauguration has been scheduled for September 26, 2026, immediately after the interdenominational prayer service to be held in the kingdom as part of activities marking the annual Ibe Festival.
The monarch subsequently offered prayers for the incoming administration, seeking divine guidance and a peaceful tenure characterised by unity, brotherhood, and understanding.
The royal blessing brings an important phase of the AIIYC transition closer, as Comr. Utanghan Ebikontei and members of the 2nd Executive Council prepare to formally assume office alongside the newly constituted 2nd Parliament.
The presentation also underscored the council’s commitment to preserving its relationship with the traditional institution and ensuring that its leadership remains anchored on consultation, respect for constituted authority, and the collective interests of the Arogbo Ibe people.
