By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: The Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish a federal university in Asaba and enhance infrastructure development in the Delta State capital.
The monarch made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the president at Aso Villa, Abuja, on Thursday.
During the meeting, the traditional ruler highlighted Asaba’s historical significance and rapid growth, stressing the need for increased federal presence. “Asaba remains the only state capital in Nigeria without a federal university. We appeal to Your Excellency to correct this oversight by granting Asaba the same status as other state capitals,” he said.
The Asagba also called for the rehabilitation of key road networks, including the Benin-Asaba Expressway and the Asaba-Illah-Ebu-Ubiaja-Uromi route, to ease movement between Delta State and the Federal Capital Territory. Additionally, he urged the federal government to extend the planned coastal rail line through Asaba to facilitate trade and transportation.
In his address, the monarch appreciated President Tinubu’s administration for approving access roads to the Second Niger Bridge and the gas pipeline passing through Asaba, describing these as critical to the city’s economic expansion.
Furthermore, he called for federal recognition of Chief Dennis Osadebay, the first and only Premier of the Midwestern Region, by naming a federal institution after him. He also sought presidential intervention in dredging the River Niger to boost commerce and transportation in riverine communities.
The Asagba used the opportunity to remind the federal government of the lingering scars of the 1967 Asaba massacre, where over 1,000 residents were killed during the civil war. “For 58 years, there has been no official closure on this tragic event. We believe that under your leadership, steps can be taken to heal these wounds,” he appealed.
The monarch also advocated for a constitutional role for traditional rulers, noting that their contributions to governance and conflict resolution should be formally recognized.
He concluded by inviting President Tinubu to visit Asaba, assuring him of the city’s legendary hospitality. “Your Excellency, we look forward to welcoming you to Asaba in the near future,” he said.
President Tinubu, in response, acknowledged the Asagba’s concerns and assured him that the federal government would review the requests.