By Patrick Ochei
Issele-Uku, the administrative headquarters of Aniocha North Local Government Area and an ancient kingdom with deep historical ties to the Benin Kingdom, is set to witness the installation of the Ada Obi Issei following over a century of vacancy in the prestigious traditional position.
The historic installation ceremony is billed for Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the palace of the Ogwa Ogbeleani of Issele-Uku, who also serves as the Okpalabuisi of Umueze Issei and Diokpa Ishiekpe, Diokpa Okonkwo Isimchei.
As part of the traditional rites, the formal conferment ceremonies will commence at the Ogwa Diokpa Isimchei before members of the Oha-Uno Umueze Issei entourage accompany the Ada Obi-designate to the Issele-Uku Royal Palace.
There, she will formally occupy the newly completed official residence known as the “Uno Ada Obi.”
For decades, the sacred regalia and symbols associated with the office of the Ada Obi Issei had remained under the custody of the Ogbeleani due to the prolonged vacancy in the traditional institution.
The items are expected to be officially transferred and preserved in the newly established residence after the installation rites.
The revered monarch of the kingdom, His Royal Majesty Agbogidi Obi Nduka, JP (MNSE), has expressed delight over the restoration of the office and is expected to serve as chief host of the ceremony.
The development is regarded as part of ongoing efforts by the monarch to preserve, strengthen, and revitalise the cultural heritage and traditional institutions of the Issele-Uku Kingdom.
Ada Obi Issei-designate, Princess Mrs. Nwasi Osemeke, is from Oha-Uno-Obi and married into the Osemeke family of Idumuzu in Idumuinei village, Issele-Uku.
She is recognised as the eldest princess from the lineage of Obi Osemene I.
Upon her installation, Princess Osemeke will assume leadership of all princesses within the royal family and oversee the activities of the various Ada institutions across the villages of the kingdom.
Her responsibilities will include working closely with the Obi in promoting peace, preserving moral values within the royal household and the wider community, mediating in family-related disputes, and safeguarding the sanctity of marriage among members of the royal lineage.
