Official-Proclamation:-Honoring-the-Life-and-Legacy-of-HRH-Dr.-Woyengibaragha-Emmanuel-Alazigha

Official Proclamation: Honoring the Life and Legacy of HRH Dr. Woyengibaragha Emmanuel Alazigha

Dave Ikiedei Asei/Wisdom Tide News/March 8, 2026

​The Council of Chiefs, in conjunction with the Alazigha and Oginiwari families, formally invites the public, dignitaries, and well-wishers to the funeral rites of HRH Dr. Woyengibaragha Emmanuel Alazigha (Opudani II).

​Affectionately known as "WEJ," the Paramount Ruler of Okoloba (Dani Dynasty) was a cornerstone of traditional leadership in KOLGA, Bayelsa State. We gather to celebrate 66 years of a life defined by wisdom, cultural preservation, and unwavering service to the Niger Delta.

Commencement: Service of Songs & Night of Tribute

​The transition ceremonies begin in Port Harcourt, offering a platform for colleagues, associates, and friends to honor his distinguished impact.

  • ​Date: Friday, March 13, 2026
  • ​Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • ​Venue: Ecumenical Center, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The Royal Final Rites (Okoloba Community)

​Following the tributes in Port Harcourt, the ceremonies move to the ancestral seat for a week-long observance of heritage and communal respect.

​I. Cultural Observances (March 18 – March 20)

  • ​Processions: Cross-country processions led by community elders.
  • ​Traditional Tributes: Egele performances by the Olodani, Isedani, and Burudani groups.
  • ​Heritage Displays: Masquerade dances, traditional wrestling, and the Becky Teddy Dance Group.

​II. The Royal Interment (Saturday, March 21)

  • ​Reception of the King: Formal arrival of the remains at the community borders, received by the Council of Chiefs and Elders.
  • ​Lying-in-State: Public viewing followed by a solemn Church Service.
  • ​Interment: Private graveside ceremony.
  • ​Evening Vigil: The Alfred Bonebi (J-King) Awigiri Dance (8:00 PM – Dawn).

​III. Thanksgiving and Grand Finale (March 22 – March 23)

  • ​Thanksgiving Service: Sunday, March 22, 10:00 AM at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Okoloba.
  • ​Commemorative Match: A ceremonial football match in honor of His Royal Highness at 4:00 PM.
  • ​The Grand Finale: Monday, March 23, featuring the Adeka Boro Cultural Dance and a live performance by Chief Barrister Smooth.

Official Endorsement

​This royal transition is coordinated by the Central Burial Committee to ensure a farewell befitting of a "Royal Diadem."

​Signed:

  • ​Hon. Preye Agas (Chairman, Central Burial Committee)
  • ​Chief ThankGod Igbanibo (Deputy Chief, Okoloba Council of Chiefs)
  • ​Secretary Maccarthy MDI (Coordinator)

​We invite you to join us as we bid a majestic farewell to a titan of our time.

​To God be the Glory.

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