By Abdallah el-Kurebe
The Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo has observed that the traditional institution in the country is a repository of tradition and values and therefore plays major role in development.
The Oba who paid homage to Sultan Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar on Monday also commended the efforts of the Sultan in building bridges across the country.
According to him, “I have noticed Your Eminence’s efforts in building bridges and I will be doing my bit to have a more united Nigeria.
“The traditional rulers are repository of traditional values and norms. We play developmental roles and we shall continue to support the Federal government in harnessing peaceful coexistence. Now that the country is bedevilled with avoidable crises, the traditional institution should continue to uphold values that unite us as a country,” the Oba stated.
He noted that the Sultanate and the Benin Kingdom had long-standing relationship and “we have been living in peaceful coexistence and cohesion,” adding that “it is my hope that the visit further smoothens our cordial relationship.”
The Sultan on his part commended the Oba for the impact he was making in Benin Chiefdom since his appointment as Oba. “We are following the impact you are making in your Chiefdom since your appointment. This means that the traditional leaders are more with their people than their political leaders. We show love and concern at all times because we are always with them.”
He added that the traditional institution was relegated to the background since after the colonial rulers left Nigeria, pledging that the institution would continue to play their fatherly role to keep the country together.
“We have forgotten history and that is why we are where we are today. The colonialists ruled through the traditional rulers. After they left, we were relegated behind but we will continue to do our best to keep the country together.
“We must ensure that our unity and strength is not weakened because the emancipation and strengthening of humanity is the common agenda of Sokoto and Benin,” Abubakar said.
He called on leaders of this country to emulate Oba Ewuare II on his stand for the unity of this country.
