Ebonyi’s longest-reigning monarch is dead

Ebonyi’s longest reigning monarch Israel Chibueze-Agbo

The longest reigning traditional ruler in Ebonyi Israel Chibueze-Agbo has passed on aged 81.

He was the father of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Ebonyi in 2019 Ndubuisi Chibueze-Agbo.

Until his death, Chibueze-Agbo was the traditional ruler of Izhia autonomous community in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi and a first-class monarch.

His first son Chinedu Chibueze-Agbo announced the death on Tuesday on behalf of the family and the Izhia Council of Chiefs at the palace in Izhia.

According to him, the traditional ruler passed on peacefully in the early hours of the day.

Chibueze-Agbo ascended the throne in 1978 and reigned for 42 years as the Agaba Idu II of Izhia Kingdom.

The family said the burial of the late monarch would hold on September 28 which would have been his 82nd birthday.

“I stand before you today to announce the death of my father and the traditional ruler of our great Kingdom, Izhia community, which sad event took place in the early hours of today, Sept 1, 2020,” Chinedu said.

A register has been opened at the palace for sympathisers to register their condolences.