The ancient town of Arogbo came alive on Sunday, 24th August 2025, as history was made in the Arogbo-Ijaw Ibe Kingdom. The Agadagba and Paramount Ruler of Arogbo-Ijaw Ibe, His Imperial Majesty, Pere Zacchaeus Doubra Egbunu Esq. (JP, FCAI, LL.M), Opukutu III, bestowed a distinguished chieftaincy title on Dr. (Mrs.) Dame Patience Faka Jonathan, wife of Nigeria’s former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR.
The conferment, which followed the 90th birthday thanksgiving service of Mama Keketobou Jane Kuku (née Gbamila), mother of Senior High Chief (Hon.) Kingsley Kemebradigha Kuku, Ph.D, was held at the Ibe Palace amidst grandeur and cultural display.
With royal blessings and ceremonial rites, Dame Patience Jonathan was decorated as High Chief Opunene, Ibeyin I of Arogbo-Ijaw Ibe Kingdom, in recognition of her contributions to peace-building, cultural preservation, and national development.
The epoch-making event was graced by eminent dignitaries including:
Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Chairman of OSOPADEC, Prince Olaleye Olabiyi Poroye.
Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, Chairman of PANDEF and former Federal Permanent Secretary.
High Chief Sola Ebiseni, Afenifere Secretary and former Chairman of Ilaje/Ese-Odo.
Senior High Chief (Hon.) Kingsley Kemebradigha Kuku, Ph.D, Agbagbatuwa Pouye of Arogbo-Ibe.
High Chief (Hon.) Ebimobowei Caleb Molos, Executive Chairman of Ese-Odo LGA. Members of the royal family and all high chiefs of the three quarters of Arogbo-Ibe.
The ceremony also featured colourful cultural exhibitions, traditional performances, and a majestic reception that showcased the rich heritage of the Ijaw people.
Speaking after her installation, Dame Patience Jonathan expressed deep appreciation to the Agadagba and the people of Arogbo-Ijaw Ibe Kingdom for the honour. She described the monarch as a custodian of peace, wisdom, and unity in the Niger Delta, pledging her continuous support for initiatives that foster development and cultural pride.
The Agadagba, in his royal remarks, described Dame Jonathan as a worthy daughter of the Niger Delta whose selfless service to Nigeria deserved honour and celebration. He prayed for her continued strength and relevance in national affairs.
The day closed with goodwill exchanges, music, and celebrations, leaving the people of Arogbo with memories of a momentous royal chapter that will echo through the kingdom’s history.
