In a historic ceremony held on January 3, 2025, at the Amayanabo Palace in Opobo, Rivers State, KAFTAN TV Foreign Correspondent Evelyn Dan Epelle was conferred with the prestigious traditional title of ‘Balolo’ of Opobo Kingdom.
His Royal Majesty, King Jaja of Opobo, Dr. Dandeson Douglas Jaja JP, Jeki V treaty King and natural ruler, Amayanabo of Opobo Kingdom welcomed dignitaries and indigenes of Opobo Kingdom and Rivers State to witness the investiture of 20 outstanding sons and daughters of the kingdom with various traditional titles, including Balolo, Amanimibo, Amaopusenibo, and Amaopuorubo.
The title, “Balolo,” which translates as “Shining Star,” recognizes exceptional professionalism and a passion for career excellence and was awarded by His Majesty King (Dr.) Dandeson Douglas Jaja, CFR, DSSRS, Jeki V, the Natural Ruler and Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, as part of the celebration marking his 45th year on the throne and the 21st anniversary of his coronation.
The event, steeped in the rich cultural traditions of Opobo Kingdom, saw 20 distinguished individuals recognized for their contributions to the development and progress of Rivers State and the kingdom.
The six awardees who saw their investiture with the Balolo titles include the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Prof. Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Odu DSSRS, Pastor Grace Charles Jaja, Blessing Fubara, Amb. Jake Epelle, Evelyn Dan Epelle, and Professor Tamunobirinye Jim Jaja.
Evelyn Dan Epelle’s recognition was particularly notable as it marked an unprecedented feat, with the title conferred on one of the youngest recipients in Opobo’s history. As a vibrant youth, Evelyn has become a symbol of excellence and inspiration to young people in Opobo.
At the ceremony, King Jaja described Dan Epelle as a beacon of integrity and achievement, stating, “This title is in anticipation that you continue doing what you do best—projecting Opobo to the world. And that our pet project on the education trust fund will come to fruition, with you as one of the engines that will move it forward. Congratulations, we offer you as a model of integrity and unprecedented achievement worthy of emulation.”
Evelyn expressed gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility, reflecting on the significance of being honored as a young professional in a tradition historically reserved for elders. She shared, “For as long as I can remember, I have worn my heritage as a daughter of this kingdom on my sleeve. I believe this recognition will inspire other young people in Opobo to make a positive impact in small or mighty ways that will compound for the benefit of Opobians worldwide.”
“I dedicate it to my father, Late Warisenibo Idarefa Dan Jacob Epelle, who raised me with strong family values and respect for our culture and tradition.”
Dan Epelle’s efforts to bring global visibility to Opobo through her academic research and professional engagements are remarkable. Notably, her research at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., produced a framework for the adaptation and glocalization of African contemporary literature on the life and legacy of King Jaja of Opobo. She also showcased Opobo at the 2019 MIPCOM content festival in Cannes, France, advocating for investments in the arts to propagate Opobo’s history as world media.
Her contributions extend to international journalism at KAFTAN TV, where she has participated in high-level engagements with global leaders. In 2023, she met the Prime Minister of Barbados, Most Honorable Mia Mottley, at the African Diaspora Investment Symposium in Silicon Valley, where she participated as a Media Fellow. They shared historical insights on King Jaja’s exile in the West Indies, which led to the reestablishment of a relationship between the Kingdom and Barbados.
Opobo Kingdom, founded in 1870 by King Jaja of Opobo, stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its people. King Jaja, a former slave turned merchant and statesman, established the kingdom as a center of commerce and diplomacy, particularly in the oil palm trade. Despite his exile by British colonial forces, his legacy is a symbol of self-determination and pride for the people of Opobo.
Today, Opobo is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and commitment to excellence, exemplified by individuals like Evelyn Dan Epelle. Through her title as Balolo, she joins a distinguished lineage of Opobo leaders working to preserve and promote the kingdom’s history while paving the way for future generations.
Evelyn Dan Epelle expressed her commitment to continuing her local and international work, emphasizing her interest in harnessing the intellectual and creative talents of Opobo’s youth in arts, literature, and media. “There’s much we can show the world, and I am honored and thankful to the King and distinguished elders of Opobo Kingdom for including me,” she said.
The ceremony concluded with congratulations and a warm welcome from the Opobo Title Holders Association (OTIHAS), underscoring the significance of this remarkable honor.
