OBA OF BENIN HONOURS GOV OKPEBHOLO WITH ROYAL GIFT

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed profound gratitude to the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, for presenting him with a royal birthday gift in commemoration of his recent birthday.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, and made available to journalists.

The symbolic presentation took place on Monday, September 29, at the Governor’s Office in Benin City, and was performed by the Oba’s eldest daughter, Princess (Mrs) Iku Aimiuwu Ewuare, accompanied by Mr. Frank Irabor, Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council.

In his response, Governor Okpebholo described the honour as humbling, while reaffirming his loyalty to the revered throne and his commitment to the development of Edo State. He said:

“Well, I am short of words as my father, the Oba of Benin, is sending me a gift. I am delighted and very honoured. According to an adage in my community, if you wash your hands well, you can eat with the elders. That is what I am seeing today. For this recognition, I will not take it for granted.

Tell the Oba, my father, that we are his children and remain committed to him and to the development of Edo State, and that his prayers are working. We will not say what we do not know. What we know, is what we will say, and what we see, is what we will say. Tell him that his prayers for us and the people of Edo State are working. Thank you very much.”

Earlier, Mr. Irabor explained the purpose of the visit, stating that the delegation was on the directive of His Majesty.

“Your Excellency, we are here this afternoon on the instruction of His Majesty, the great Oba of Benin Kingdom, to present to you a royal gift. The eldest child of His Royal Majesty, Princess (Mrs) Iku Aimiuwu Ewuare, has been directed by the Omo N’Oba to hand over the royal gift as a present for your birthday that was recently celebrated. That is the main reason why we are here as Omo N’Oba sent us.”

Presenting the gift, Princess Aimiuwu conveyed her father’s goodwill and blessings.

“I am pleased to be here today on behalf of my father, as already mentioned, to present to you a wonderful birthday gift to celebrate your birthday. Happy birthday again. Long life and prosperity to you.”

The ceremony reflects the enduring influence of the Benin Monarchy in state affairs and highlights the Governor’s deep respect for traditional institutions.