Israel Chibueze-Agbo, who is the longest reigning traditional monarch in Ebonyi, has died. He was aged 81. He was father to the Ebonyi governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2019 governorship election, Chief Ndubuisi Chibueze-Agbo.
Chibueze-Agbo, before his death, was the traditional ruler of Izhia autonomous community in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi and an elite monarch.
The death was announced by Mr Chinedu Chibueze-Agbo, first son of the deceased, on behalf of the family and the Izhia Council of Chiefs at the palace in Izhia on Tuesday. He disclosed that the traditional ruler passed on peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday.
Chibueze-Agbo ascended the throne in 1978 and reigned for 42 years as the ‘Agaba Idu II of Izhia Kingdom.
The family said that the burial of the late monarch would hold on Sept. 28, coincidentally his 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.
“He was the former chairman, Ohaukwu Local Government Area Council of Traditional Rulers; former chairman, Ebonyi North Council of Traditional Rulers, and former chairman of Abakaliki zone, Council of Traditional Rulers.
“He was crowned in 1978 and he guided his people through the path of peace, unity and prosperity in his 42 years reign.
“He lived for 81 years serving God and humanity before heeding the glorious home call and may his soul rest in peace,” Chibueze-Agbo said.
Meanwhile, the Ebonyi SDP governorship candidate in 2019, described the death of his father as ‘shocking’ and a great loss, not only to the community but Ebonyi generally,
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a condolence register has been opened at the palace for sympathisers.