The Acting Amayanabo of Okpoama Kingdom, His Highness Nathan Dimunanengi Egba-Dienagha, has pledged to use his 12-month interim leadership to restore unity, ensure transparent governance, and oversee the election and coronation of a new substantive king. The commitment was announced in a statement released on Friday, January 16, 2026, following a court ruling that formalized his appointment.
Egba-Dienagha said his tenure was confirmed by a declarative judgment delivered on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, by Justice T.Y. Abasi of the Brass-Nembe High Court. The judgment, delivered in Suit No. BYHC/CV/4/2025, fixed his mandate at 12 calendar months and directed him to facilitate the selection and installation of a new monarch for Okpoama Kingdom.Describing the assignment as critical, the Acting Amayanabo said the period would be used to heal divisions and rebuild the kingdom’s reputation for harmony among Nembe-speaking communities. He noted that the court ruling brought finality to prolonged legal disputes surrounding the traditional stool.“
This is a very serious and onerous assignment that requires total application of all my abilities, capabilities, and the special grace of God,” he said. He added that the success of the process would depend on the cooperation and support of all indigenes through broad consultations and consensus-building.Calling for an end to internal strife, Egba-Dienagha urged residents to embrace forgiveness, unity, and durable peace. He said these values had historically defined Okpoama Kingdom and should guide the community during the transition period.
On financial stewardship, the Acting Amayanabo assured residents that kingdom resources would be managed prudently and openly. He pledged that all funds would be used strictly for the benefit of the people, with a focus on development-driven initiatives.He also said efforts would be made to attract partnerships, encourage investment, and leverage local resources to stimulate economic growth within Okpoama Kingdom. According to him, transparent financial practices would be central to rebuilding trust and confidence in the traditional institution.
Egba-Dienagha extended assurances of peaceful coexistence to neighboring communities on Brass Island and across Brass Local Government Area. He expressed optimism that dialogue and mutual respect would strengthen inter-community relations during his tenure.The Acting Amayanabo paid tribute to his predecessor, His Highness Paul Briggs Omubo-Suobagha, acknowledging his years of selfless service in the acting role. He also thanked the Amayana-ongu of the component communities, the Okpoama Kingdom Council of Chiefs, the Council of Deputy Chiefs, administrative organs, and residents for their resilience and prayers.
He further acknowledged the recent deaths of notable sons of the kingdom, Chief Emmanuel S. Beredugo-Elei and Engr. Prof. Youpele Orukalama Beredugo, offering prayers for the peaceful repose of their souls.Okpoama Kingdom has experienced leadership transitions since the abdication of King Banigo in 2024 due to health reasons, following a 12-year reign. The latest pledge signals a renewed push for reconciliation, stability, and orderly succession within the kingdom.
