Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has described the late Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, Dandeson Douglas Jaja, as a fulfilled leader whose life embodied peace, resilience, and exemplary service to his people.
Governor Fubara made his feelings known on Saturday during the funeral service held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, where he joined dignitaries, traditional rulers, and members of the Opobo community to bid farewell to the revered monarch, who passed on at the age of 83.
Eulogising the late king in his tribute to the fallen hero, the governor said he lived a life worthy of emulation, marked by calmness and dignity even in the face of adversity. He particularly recalled the protracted battle for the throne, which lasted over two decades, noting that the monarch’s composure throughout the period ensured that the kingdom remained peaceful.
“He kept his cool and the kingdom was peaceful. I describe him as a man of class and dignity. He was a man who treated everyone as a son and daughter without discrimination. So, today we celebrate him with fulfillment as someone who had finished his work,” Fubara said.
The governor noted that the late monarch’s reign would remain a reference point in the history of Opobo Kingdom, adding that beyond the founding fathers, he was one of the few rulers who left a significant and lasting imprint.
“First, during his reign, we had a deputy governor and a governor. History will never forget him. I urge our academia to document this, as King Dandeson Douglas Jaja is the King that came, saw even in the most turbulent waters and conquered successfully,” he added..
Addressing members of the bereaved royal family, the governor emphasised the importance of unity and personal industry, cautioning against disputes over material inheritance. According to him, true success is not inherited but earned through individual effort.
“What you inherit are assets; you don’t inherit success. The King has done his part. What we are describing here is his success, and it is not transferable to anybody. You all need to work for your own success,” he advised.
He further warned that any form of conflict within the family would contradict the peaceful legacy of the late monarch.
“If you have that in mind, you won’t have any crisis in the family. He was a peaceful man, and he will be very sorrowful wherever he is if he sees his family in disarray, fighting over nothing,” Fubara cautioned.
Highlighting the transient nature of material possessions, the governor urged family members to focus on long-term values and development rather than short-lived gains.
“When I mean nothing, I mean fighting over what will be valueless in the next 25 years because we are talking about new development. So, work for your own success,” he said.
Governor Fubara concluded by noting that paying tribute to the late monarch was a great honour, reaffirming that his legacy of peace, humility, and service would continue to inspire generations within and beyond Opobo Kingdom.
