In a story that continues to captivate history lovers and traditional institutions across the globe, His Royal Majesty Benjamin Ikenchukwu Keagborekuzi I made headlines in 1979 when he was crowned Dein of Agbor in Delta State at the tender age of two, following the sudden passing of his father, King James Obika Ikenchukwu.
The historic coronation earned him a spot in the 1980 Guinness Book of World Records as the youngest monarch in the world—a record that still garners attention today.
Despite his age, the Agbor Kingdom upheld its hereditary succession customs and bestowed upon him the sacred crown, trusting his guardians and elders to manage royal affairs during his early years. Due to political instability and safety concerns, the young king was soon sent abroad for protection and education, spending the next 25 years overseas, preparing for leadership through a Western education.
His return at age 27 came with its own challenges. An entire generation had grown up without knowing their king. Reflecting on this in an interview, the monarch noted:
“We are still dealing with the effects of my long stay abroad because many people no longer understand what it means to serve a king.”
Nevertheless, HRM Keagborekuzi I has earned a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most visionary and respected traditional rulers. His reign has transcended local governance, reaching diplomatic and educational milestones.
In 2006, he was appointed Chancellor of the University of Ilorin at age 28, becoming the youngest university chancellor in Africa. He later took up the role of Chancellor at West African Union University in Benin Republic in 2015.
His global recognition includes receiving the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Belgium Crown at just 26 years old.
Known for his modesty and intellect, the monarch remains relatively private about his personal life. He once shared in an interview with PUNCH that he is married to a fellow Agbor native whom he met unexpectedly in the United States, calling it a divine encounter.
He also spoke about the privilege of using his position to inspire change:
“The most interesting part for me is the opportunity to be able to make a change. As a normal Nigerian, nobody would listen to you if you talk but because of my position, I have the opportunity to talk to people and they listen.”
As the 18th monarch of the Agbor Kingdom, HRM Benjamin Ikenchukwu Keagborekuzi I continues to exemplify leadership rooted in tradition yet open to modern progress. He envisions Agbor evolving into a global city like Dubai, given the right developmental framework.
