…..Two strong men of the Niger Delta unite in friendship as Okochiri monarch welcomes his royal brother and pledges to attend SE DIYE in Buguma.
By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo
In a powerful demonstration of friendship and a renewed commitment to Ijaw unity, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Dabaye Amakiri 1, Amakiri Ekpeke, Sebromabo. The Amanyanabo of The Chiefdom and Principalities of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri of the Kingdom of Kalabari paid a personal visit to His Majesty, King Ateke Tom, the Amanyanabo of Okochiri.
The meeting brought together two strong men of the Niger Delta whose names are deeply associated with the region’s history and struggles. Their coming together today carries a powerful message: a new era of peace, reconciliation and progress is possible in Rivers State when influential sons of the region choose friendship and cooperation over division.
Accompanied by an impressive entourage of chiefs and palace aides, Dokubo-Asari received a warm welcome from King Ateke Tom and his palace chiefs.
Describing Okochiri as his second home, Dokubo-Asari used a traditional proverb about a bird stretching out its legs while in flight to announce that it was approaching home. He revealed that their relationship went far beyond public knowledge, extending into deep family ties.
He disclosed that King Ateke’s daughter had enjoyed a close relationship with his grandmother and had lived with her. She still calls him uncle. He also recalled that, during their difficult younger days, King Ateke had consistently counselled them against fighting, urging them instead to make peace.
Calling Ateke his senior brother, Dokubo-Asari highlighted the close similarities between Kalabari and Okrika traditions, particularly their systems of chieftaincy. He fondly recalled a time when the Okochiri monarch personally prepared fresh fish soup for him — a cherished memory that captured the warmth of their friendship beyond royal titles.
In his response, King Ateke Tom thanked Dokubo-Asari for the honour of personally visiting to extend the invitation to SE DIYE. He described their emergence as kings as God’s plan and promised to attend the ceremony in Buguma.
The significance of this encounter goes beyond a royal invitation. It is a meeting of two influential Niger Delta leaders whose personal histories reflect a region that has experienced difficult times but continues to seek peace, unity and development.
At a time when Rivers State needs reconciliation, cooperation and purposeful leadership, the sight of these two men standing together sends an important message. Their friendship offers an opportunity to strengthen relationships across communities and encourage a more peaceful and prosperous future.
SE DIYE, the final rites of coronation of the Amanyanabo of The Chiefdom and Principalities of The Source, Elem Kalabari, Torusarama Piri, will hold on Saturday, 19 December 2026, at King Amachree Memorial Hall, Buguma, Rivers State.
Two strong men. One shared heritage. A renewed bond for peace, unity and progress in Rivers State.
