Thousands of Edo State residents, who yesterday gathered at Benin Airport, expressed joy about the safe return of Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, from world tour.
The return of the first-class monarch to Benin, according to his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Osaigbovo Iguobaro, after a working tour outside the country, attracted respect for the Oba, for defending Edo heritage against political incursion, associated with the uprising from the ranks of the Enigie (Dukes) in Benin Kingdom.
Dukes were divided over the Governor Godwin Obaseki administration’s claim to implement the 1979 Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Act, which sought to divide the Benin kingdom, made up of seven local governments, with Dukes appointed by the Oba of Benin to, on his behalf, oversee the dukedoms.
Members of the royal family, loyal Dukes, Benin palace chiefs, royal fans, friends and well-wishers struggled to contain their excitement, when a private aircraft, boarded by the traditional ruler, hit the Benin airport’s runway at 3:50pm.
Royal drummers and youths, cultural dance troupes, socio-cultural groups, including the presiding Priest of Holy Aruosa Cathedral (Edo national church), Ohen-Osa Edebiri Igbinoghodua; priests and priestesses of deities wished the Benin monarch the best that life had to offer, with rendering of melodious songs.
The colourful reception was preceded by a road walk by royal fans and security agents, along with the convoy of the Oba of Benin, who waved to the crowds on his route from the airport to his palace in Benin.
Credit: THE NATION.
