Residents of Benin City in Edo trooped out on Tuesday to catch a glimpse of Oba Ewuare II as he arrived at Holy Aruosa Cathedral for activities marking his 10th coronation anniversary.
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo joined the Oba at his palace and accompanied him on a slow drive to the historic worship centre.
Residents, including traders paused their activities as the Oba’s convoy, accompanied by the governor and other prominent people from Edo, proceeded to the cathedral.
Groups of men and women dressed in colourful traditional red and white attires were also seen following the procession.
The Holy Aruosa Cathedral, located along the Akpakpava-Benin-Auchi road, is a historic place of worship, where the Oba worships.
Speaking to newsmen at the cathedral, the Edo Commissioner for Mining, Mr Kayode Iriabekhai, said they were there to celebrate a traditional ruler whose reign had brought peace to the state.
Iriabekhai commended the Oba for supporting the governor since he assumed office. He prayed that the traditional ruler’s reign would continue to bring peace to Edo.
Okpebholo congratulates Oba of Benin on 10th coronation anniversary
Meanwhile, Governor Okpebholo has congratulated the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, on the 10th anniversary of his coronation.
Okpebholo, in a congratulatory message issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Ebojele Akhere Patrick, said the anniversary is an occasion to celebrate and give thanks for the monarch’s decade-long reign.
The governor, who spoke on behalf of the Edo Government and people, described the Oba’s reign as wise, dignified and purposeful.
He noted that his reign has promoted peace, unity and reconciliation in the Benin Kingdom and beyond.
He said the Oba had continued to demonstrate the values of service and leadership while preserving the rich cultural heritage, traditions, history and identity of the Benin people.
“As the revered custodian of the ancient heritage of the Benin Kingdom, Your Royal Majesty has continued to preserve, promote and project our rich culture, traditions, history and identity on a global stage,” he said.
Okpebholo added that the Oba’s efforts to promote the dignity of the Benin people had strengthened the kingdom’s position among the great civilisations of the world.
He also expressed appreciation to the traditional ruler for his goodwill, wise counsel and support for his administration, describing the palace as an important institution in promoting peace, stability and development across Edo.
The governor prayed that God would grant the Oba wisdom, sound health and strength to continue his reign for many more years.
“Happy 10th coronation anniversary, your royal najesty. Oba Ghato Kpere, Ise!” he added.