Oba of Benin symbolizes unity, progress – Deputy Gov

 AGENE GODWIN, Benin 

Edo state Deputy Governor Rt. Hon Philip Shaibu has lauded the Oba of Benin, His Majesty, Ewuare 11 for consistently playing his fatherly role in the state, describing the revered monarch as a symbol of unity and progress. 

The Deputy Governor made the remarks when he joined the Otaru of Auchi, HRH A. H. Momoh, Ikelebe 111 of Auchi  kingdom, other traditional rulers from Edo North and the immediate past governor of the state,Comrade Adams Oshiomhole  to  receive the king who was on a thank you visit to Edo North. Hon Shaibu said the visit of the Benin monarch was not only symbolic but a significant one that would no doubt bring blessing to their land. “Our Great Oba’s visit is a blessing to us, and with his prayer that Edo North will record bumper harvest this year and the symbolic rain that followed immediately is an indication of great things ahead”, he emphasised. 

In his welcome address, the Otaru of Auchi ,commended the Benin monarch for his reform agenda, especially in the area of land use administration which he said has taken many young men out of laziness and ignorance. He described the personality of the Oba as a well groomed character of contentment and culture.

“Your historical ascension to the divine throne of your forebears has added colour to our culture. I welcome you on behalf of the Edo North traditional rulers. He pledged their continuous cooperation and loyalty to the Benin monarch.

Comrade Adams Oshiomhole in a keynote address, also added that under the reign of Oba Ewuare 11, Edo people have remained one and more united than ever before.

 He promised that Edo council of traditional rulers would soon be reconstituted so as to build a formidable traditional institution that will collaborate with government . He also solicited the support of the traditional rulers in the realisation of his objective and initiative to build responsible Youth and culture of hard work and food sufficiency.

The monarch  promised to extend invitation to other ethnic groups in the state to actively participate in the historical  annual Igue Festival .”This is necessary to consolidate on our historical traditions, ” he said.

He commended the state government for giving legal backing to his pronouncement on the activities of community Development Associations, CDAs.