History Made as Monarch Admits Banigo House Head into Chiefs Council in Grand Ceremony at Bonny Palace

The Traditional Institution in the ancient Grand Bonny Kingdom witnessed a historic moment on Saturday, June 28, 2025 as Se-Alabo Sotonye Banigo was officially presented and admitted into the Bonny Chiefs Council (BCC) by the Amanyanabo-in-Council, His Majesty, King Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple III, CON, DSSRS, JP, Edward I, Perekule XI.

The ceremony, which held at the King Perekule Royal Palace in Bonny, Rivers State, brought together traditional rulers, elders, community leaders, and citizens from across the Kingdom and beyond in celebration of heritage, unity, and leadership.

In his keynote address, the Amanyanabo and Natural Ruler of Bonny Kingdom described the event as “yet another significant milestone in the proud history and cultural continuity of our nation and noble kingdom.”

He welcomed the new Chief with words of praise and responsibility.

“It is with deep joy and solemn pride that we welcome Chief Elect Sotonye Banigo KSC as head and chief of Banigo Major House into the distinguished fold of the Bonny Chiefs Council.”

His Majesty said; “The crown does not rest on the head alone. It rests also on the heart.”

The monarch reminded the new chief that leading requires wisdom and humility, as this will help him to progress and drive unity in the Kingdom.

He noted that a lot is expected of him as he is first a servant, then a guardian, before a leader.

“Let your leadership be guided by wisdom, humility and unwavering pursuit of peace, unity and progress. Be reminded always that the chief is the first servant and then the guardian, and finally a bridge between generations.”

In his remarks, the newly inducted Chief and Head of the Banigo House, Se-Alabo Sotonye Banigo acknowledged the long and difficult path that led to his installation.

“The reality we witness today didn’t come cheap. The journey was long and tortuous. At every turn of the way, the minds of doubters, mourners, and banana pills were placed on our way.”

“But God, being who He is, all the time intervened, using some of the people here today to support this journey.”

Calling for healing and unity within Banigo House, he extended an olive branch:

“Banigo House must move forward. The time for rancour and animosity is over. We must make progress.”

“I call on all of us… to join hands together as we move Banigo House to greater heights.”

The occasion drew tributes from leaders across Bonny Kingdom such as Chief and Head of Hart House, Se-Alabo Reginald Hart, who congratulated the Banigo elders for making what he called “a well-founded choice”.

He described Chief Banigo as “well educated, highly exposed…a change agent, a mentor, and a role model”.

“Chieftaincy is all about leadership,” he said. “May I admonish to abandon their chief after today. They should not stand aside and audit him… God forbid. He must continue to stand solidly behind him.”

President of the Bonny Kingdom Titled Citizens’ Assembly, Furosia Wilcox, also offered his kind words.

“Today is a notable day of the history in the succession line and the chieftaincy system of Banigo Chieftaincy House.
No doubt, Providence has been smiling at you and guiding your steps and meteoric rise in this society.”

Former Bonny LGA Chairman, Edward Pepple, described Banigo as his “teacher, mentor and now chief,” saying the presentation “ignites a new source of loyalty and support” for Banigo House.

“I will pray for long life, I’ll pray for prosperity, and I’ll pray for peace as you rule and lead the people of Banigo House.”

The event concluded with traditional rites, blessings, and cultural displays, affirming the authority of the new Se-Alabo and heralding a new chapter in the history of Banigo House and the Bonny Kingdom at large.