At 23, a microbiology student becomes a traditional ruler in Delta State

At 23, Prince Daniel Afamefune Chukwujindu has taken the throne of Ekwuoma Kingdom in Delta State while still studying microbiology at Delta State University, Abraka.

Daniel was formally installed on Thursday as the kingdom’s 11th Ajeh. He assumed the title Ezeagu-Ukpo II after the burial rites for his father, King Chinedu Samuel Chukwujindu, the 10th Ajeh. His succession followed Ekwuoma’s primogeniture system, which recognises the first son of a reigning monarch as heir. The community says it has maintained that practice since the kingdom was founded nearly 400 years ago.

The installation marked the end of his father’s 18-year reign and the start of a new period under one of Ekwuoma’s youngest monarchs. Traditional rulers, chiefs, community leaders, government representatives, academics, relatives and well-wishers attended the ceremony. Traditional rites transferred the institution to the new ruler, followed by prayers and goodwill messages.

Daniel thanked the community for accepting him and promised to protect its customs and traditions. He also pledged to promote peace, unity and development, urging Ekwuoma’s sons and daughters to support the traditional institution and avoid divisions. He called for closer cooperation among traditional leaders, government and residents to address the community’s challenges.

Chief Ernest Njokede, chairman of the Council of Chiefs and Orikeze of Ekwuoma, congratulated Daniel and asked residents to support the new Ajeh. He prayed for the wisdom, strength, health and guidance that Daniel would need in his new role, while paying tribute to the late monarch’s 18-year reign.

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I thank the people of Ekwuoma for accepting me.