Benin indigenes in Abuja have commended the Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolopolo Oba Ewuare 11, Oba of Benin for visiting President Muhammadu Buhari and Benin indigenes in Abuja.
Some of the indigenes’, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, described the visit as memorable and historic.
Mr Osarenoma Uwaifo, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health said that the Edo Community in Abuja was proud to welcome the Oba to the nation’s capital on his first and historic visit after his coronation.
Uwaifo said that the Oba’s visit to Abuja at this time was auspicious, as the country was in dire need of peace, understanding and development.
“We are confident that the Oba’s visit will bring hope and understanding among the people of Edo resident in Abuja’’ he said.
Mr Dickson Omoregie, the Chairman of Benin Community in Abuja, said that the Oba’s visit was unique and Edo people were happy that their `father’ was in Abuja.
Omoregie said that the Oba had come to greet his subjects having been coroneted 13 months ago. So, it is proper for him to say thank you to those who made it a success.
“The presidency was represented during his coronation, and all his subjects were also there and this is his first outing and it is so significant that he is here.
“The sight of an Oba could be a life time experience, it is a great privilege for those that are here, as some may not have an opportunity to meet with him again throughout their life time, and his coming signifies blessing,
“When he touched his feet on Abuja soil, he prayed for blessings, unity, favour and prosperity,’’ he said.
Omoregie said that the unity of Edo indigenes resident in Abuja was cordial and that he was leveraging on the visit to ensure that all Edo people that had not be reached were invited.
“The unity of Edo indigenes in Abuja is cordial, Edo is not violent,we are not fraudulent or thieves and his coming had come to strengthen us as it is a display of culture and tradition and values,’’ he added.
Mr Ehis Ogieriakhi said that the visit was significant as it had solidified the relationship between Edo people and the Federal Government.
Ogieriakhi also said that the visit had added value and colour to the way and manner Edo people were rated.
“His coming has really elevated the ratings of the Edo people,’’ he said.
NAN reports that the Oba of Benin arrived Abuja on Wednesday amid a rousing welcome by Edo indigenes in Abuja.
He also met with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Aso Villa on Thursday. (NAN)
