The Egrangbene Autonomous Communities in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State have announced the passing of their Pere-elect, Henry Ambakederemo Okrikpa, who died while awaiting formal recognition from the Delta State Government.
Okrikpa, popularly known as Egbine-Agbe, Daufa I of the proposed Egrangbene Kingdom, was said to have died at the age of 70 after a brief illness.
His death was made public in a statement issued by the Okruzi of the Egrangbene Autonomous Communities, Chief Felix Krokeme Maku, and released to journalists in Warri on Wednesday.
The statement noted that the late monarch-elect is survived by three children, grandchildren and other relatives.
Following his demise, the communities declared a period of mourning, with funeral arrangements to be announced later.
It further stated that the Regent of the proposed Egrangbene Kingdom, Chief Oboye Omonibeke, would communicate details of the burial rites at the appropriate time.
Okrikpa was elected and crowned on September 16, 2009, but his emergence sparked a prolonged kingship tussle within the community.
Although he underwent coronation rites, the Delta State Government did not grant him official recognition due to controversies surrounding his selection.
He passed away with the question of his formal recognition by the state still unresolved.
