The Asagba of Asaba kingdom, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, has disrobed a native doctor, Francis Anija, for allegedly defiling the land, and has ordered him to perform the necessary cleansing rites or face banishment.
The disrobing ceremony, held during the Asagba executive council meeting on February 25, 2025, underscored the monarch’s unwavering commitment to maintaining traditional order and discipline.
Following the disrobing, the Onoi Ahaba, Ogbueshi Uche Nwajei, declared that Anija must undergo the ‘i’kpu alu’ (cleansing of the land) ceremony, within eight days to atone for his actions.
The ritual, deeply rooted in Asaba’s customs, serves to restore spiritual balance and uphold the kingdom’s sacred traditions.
He maintained that should Anija fail to comply, he faces outright banishment from Asaba Kingdom, which is a severe but historically significant measure meant to preserve communal harmony.
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The monarch’s decisive action, comes amid rising concerns over unauthorized claims of autonomy, and self-rule by some communities within Asaba.
Addressing the council, Prof. Azinge reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the unity and authority of Asaba Kingdom, warning against any attempts to carve out autonomous communities.
“Asaba is known for its hospitality, but that does not give anyone the right to divide our kingdom. There can only be one king in Asaba, and any attempt to undermine this authority will be firmly resisted,” he declared.
The monarch also appointed Ogbueshi Murphy Arinze, as ‘Anya Asagba’ (the king’s eye) in the Ikpoto satellite area, entrusting him with the responsibility of monitoring, and protecting Asaba’s interests.