The Benin King hosted him to a grand reception in his Palace in Benin City, for what he described as the ex-Governor’s outstanding achievements while in office .
At the colourful occasion that was graced by some serving governors, captains of industry, and other dignitaries, Oba Ewuare described Oshiomhole’s tenure as eventful and an era that opened the way to social-economic development of the state.
“A lot of encomiums have already been showered on the former governor but we felt we needed to host him at the Palace Ground for promoting the Edo Culture and doing what past governors thought were impossible.
“He was committed to duty, achieved what past administrations could not achieve and showed great respect to the Benin Monarchy,” the Oba remarked.
He prayed for comrade Oshiomhole and presented a special gift, a bronze bust of the former governor to him.
In his remarks, the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, expressed his appreciation to the Oba for honouring his predecessor and described the event as unique and historical.
Obaseki said that the Royal Father’s acknowledgement of the achievements of Comrade Oshiomhole, shows there is reward for people who truly serve the people. He added that the event would spur him as governor to do as much or even more than his predecessor.
The governor explained that Comrade Oshiomhole did not only lay the foundation for economic development in the state but used the political platform to unify the various ethnic groups in Edo State.
In his response, Oshiomhole expressed his gratitude to the Benin Monarch for the honour and attributed his achievements to the support he got from the Benin Palace. He said he succeeded as governor of Edo State because he has a father who is the Oba of Benin.
He thanked the Oba for the royal gift and described it as the summary of his life’s struggle. He urged his successor to aspire to do more than he did and urged Edo people to be patient with the Obaseki-led administration.
Dignitaries at the occasion included the Governor of Kebbi State, Sen. Abubakar Bagudu; his Sokoto State counterpart, Aminu Tambuwal; Senate President, Bukola Saraki, who was represented by Phar. Mathew Urhoghide; Speaker of House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, represented by Hon. Pally Iriase; Chairman/Editor-in-Chief, Thisday Newspaper and ARISE Television, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; serving commissioners, captains of industry, traditional leaders, government functionaries and a host of others.
