The Pere of Seimbiri Kingdom, HRM Charles Ayemi-Botu, has peacefully passed away, as officially announced by Chief Alexander Ebisune, the spokesperson of the Seimbiri Traditional Council.

Ebisune declared the monarch’s death during a meeting at Okpokunou, the traditional headquarters, revealing that the transition occurred on October 5, 2023.

In commemoration, a three-month mourning period has been instituted, starting January 5, 2023, with a suspension of social activities such as marriages and burials.

Ebisune eulogized the departed king, describing him as a visionary ruler who “came, saw, and conquered, leaving behind a trail of unprecedented development in Seimbiri Kingdom” during his remarkable 29-year reign on the throne.

He added, “On behalf of the SEIMBIRI TRADITIONAL COUNCIL of Chiefs, I wish to officially announce the transition of our most revered Monarch, His Majesty, King (Dr) Charles Ayemi-Botu (JP) OFR, Paramount Ruler of Seimbiri Kingdom to the great beyond to join his ancestors.”

The late monarch, born on January 18, 1948, in Okpokunou, held various esteemed positions during his lifetime. He ascended the throne on April 4, 1995, after being crowned on April 2, 1994, following the customs and traditions of Seimbiri Kingdom.

Group Captain Ibrahim Kefas, the then Military Administrator of Delta State, presented him with the Staff of Office.

King Ayemi-Botu was not only a revered traditional ruler but also a trailblazer, serving as the first Executive Chairman of the Traditional Rulers of Oil Minerals Producing Communities of Nigeria and holding the position of Life Patron of the organization.

At the age of 75, King Ayemi-Botu leaves behind a legacy of leadership and development. He is survived by his wife, Queen Mary Botu, children, grandchildren, and numerous relatives.

Ebisune mentioned that an official date for the monarch’s burial ceremony will be announced after the conclusion of the mourning period.