.Stages grand boat regatta

By Adesina Wahab

The ancient customs of the Kalabari people were on full display yesterday, as Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakar Dokubo-Asari, Dabaye Amakiri I and Amanyanabo of Elem Kalabari (The Source), formally presented his son, Alabo Briebibo Dienyefa Dokubo-Asari, to the Kalabari nation as a chief.
The ceremony marked the climax of more than two months of rigorous traditional rites — a process anchored in ancestry, character scrutiny and communal endorsement.

In Kalabari tradition, chieftaincy is neither ceremonial nor hereditary by mere declaration. It is earned through a structured pathway requiring presentation before chiefs of houses and families tied to the candidate’s paternal lineage.

At every stage, Briebibo Dienyefa was introduced, examined and affirmed. His lineage was verified and his conduct assessed to ensure he was worthy and without blemish. Having satisfied the customary requirements, he was formally installed to occupy his father’s personal chieftaincy stool — a position initiated in 2004 — and to bear the title Dokubo-Asari II.

A Journey Through Tradition

The journey began on January 17, 2026, with his presentation to the Edi Polo family at the Edi Polo Memorial Hall, Buguma. On January 24, the second phase — Polo Diye (compound presentation) — was held at the Omubo Birinaomoni Memorial Hall, drawing nearly one hundred chiefs.

On February 27, he was presented at the Kariboye-Abi Princewill Memorial Hall, a significant rite that coincided with his father’s own presentation to the Abi Royal Family ahead of coronation formalities. In Kalabari land, even a king must submit to ancestral protocols before full recognition.

Early morning showers that day were widely interpreted by attendees as symbolic blessings on the proceedings.

Royal Procession and Presentation

The grandeur of the event was evident in the royal convoy. The Amanyanabo arrived in a cream Rolls-Royce, followed by a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser VXR and a Mercedes-Benz Brabus 800. The Amama Soldiers provided tight security throughout.

At the King Kariboye-Abu Princewill Amachree Memorial Hall, father and son were formally presented to the Abi Family chiefs — custodians of royal legitimacy. Proceedings were presided over by the Regent of the Kalabari Kingdom, Chief Charles Numbere.

In a symbolic gesture following his address, Chief Basoene Abiyesuku lifted the monarch’s hand and presented him before the Regent, reaffirming royal authority in accordance with tradition.

When it was the turn of the new chief, a traditional test of fidelity was conducted. Before the Regent lay a cannon ball and a tuber of yam. He was asked to identify both and choose between them — symbols of defence and sustenance. He was further questioned on what action he would take if confronted with insurgency against the king. Satisfied with his responses, a family chief lifted his hand in endorsement. Cannon shots followed, signaling formal acceptance.

The Grand Finale: Se Diye

Saturday marked the grand finale — the Se Diye, the highest level of chieftaincy installation in Kalabari tradition. Championing his son’s presentation, the king led him before chiefs from across the kingdom.
The Se Diye extends validation beyond family and compound to the entire nation. By this stage, a candidate has passed prior levels of scrutiny. Now, he stands before peers — chiefs who have undergone similar rites — to affirm his status as a full Alabo.

Among those presented alongside him were Alabo West Oburulele, Alabo Seliman of Sama, Alabo Dr. Ebi Robinson Braide, Alabo Obiobra Pankin Braide, and Alabo Tubidikiba Braide — all from the Edi Compound headed by the monarch.
The King Amachree Memorial Hall overflowed with chiefs, dignitaries, diaspora representatives and well-wishers. Traditional drums thundered as dancers performed in tight formations. The Ogele Cultural Troupe of the Amanyanabo and members of the Alhaji Mujahid Abubakar Dokubo-Asari Cultural Centre entertained for hours under the scorching sun in honour of their patron.

Regatta of Heritage

To crown the historic installation, the kingdom staged a colourful boat regatta — a defining maritime expression of Kalabari identity. Decorated boats glided across the waters amid chants, music and pageantry, celebrating continuity and succession in a riverine civilization.

With the completion of the Se Diye, Alabo Briebibo Dienyefa Dokubo-Asari is now entitled to wear the Don attire — the distinctive regalia of Kalabari chiefs — throughout the kingdom. The traditional walking stick he carries is no longer symbolic; it represents authority earned through process and communal affirmation.

For the Kalabari nation, the event was more than celebration. It was institutional continuity — a reaffirmation that leadership remains anchored in lineage, legitimacy and the enduring strength of tradition.

An elated King Dokubo-Asari said,
” These past two months have been very hectic but I am happy and proud today finally came and it was a great success. I thank all those who were part of this event. “