The ancient Owa Kingdom, Ika north east local government area of Delta State came alive with a historic double celebration, the unveiling of the newly built Owa Hall of Fame and the commemoration of the 66th Coronation Anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Emmanuel Efeizomor II, JP, OON, the Obi of Owa Kingdom.
Dignitaries from across Delta State and beyond, including traditional rulers, government officials, academics, clergy, and community leaders, gathered on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in grand style to honour the revered monarch and witness the epoch-making event.
Governor Shriff Oborevwori in his remarks said the Hall of Fame was a landmark initiative that underscores the visionary leadership of Obi Efeizomor.
Represented by his Chief Strategist, Dr. Festus Okubor, the governor described the Hall of Fame as a landmark initiative that underscores the visionary leadership of the Obi.
“This project speaks volumes about the leadership credentials of His Majesty, Obi Emmanuel Efeizomor II, who is also celebrating 66 glorious years on the throne.
“His communicative brilliance, wisdom, and progressive spirit have always been a source of inspiration.
“This edifice will preserve Owa’s rich history while motivating younger generations to aspire to greatness,” Okubor stated.
The Chairman of the Occasion, His Royal Majesty Stanley Luke, Pere of Akugbene-Mein Kingdom and Vice Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, hailed the Owa monarch’s uncommon creativity.
“In my 28 years on the throne, I have worked closely with the Obi of Owa and continue to see him as a mentor and father figure.
“This Hall of Fame is not just an edifice; it is a monument of brilliance and wisdom, honouring heroes across professions and reminding us of our heritage,” he noted.
The Royal Father of the Day, His Royal Majesty Major-General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd), CFR, MNI, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom and Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, described the Obi as an “encyclopedia of traditional institutions” whose reign has spanned colonial administration, military regimes, and multiple republics.
“To reign for 66 years is no small feat. His Majesty has navigated history with wisdom and integrity. We celebrate him not just as a monarch but as an icon of resilience, knowledge, and service,” the Okpe monarch declared.
Similarly, the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, commended Obi Efeizomor II as a doyen of traditional institutions in Nigeria.
“You are not only worthy of admiration but of emulation. For 66 years, you have been an institution in yourself, and we honour your enduring legacy,” he said.
Prof. Eric Eboh, the project designer, explained that the Owa Hall of Fame was conceived by the monarch to immortalize sons and daughters of Owa who have excelled in various fields, alongside friends of the kingdom.
The edifice, he said, also chronicles Owa’s lineage, dating back to 1219 AD.
Rt. Rev’d Godfrey Ifeanyichukwu Ekpenisi, Bishop of Ika Diocese (Anglican Communion), led the dedication of the Hall of Fame, describing it as a beacon of honour and inspiration.
“This is more than a building; it is a living testimony to excellence, service, and sacrifice. It will inspire generations to come to live impactful lives,” he declared.
The double celebration not only honoured the past but also charted a path for the future, with the Owa Hall of Fame standing as a permanent reminder of the heritage, resilience, and leadership of the Owa people under the remarkable reign of Obi Emmanuel Efeizomor
