…Oba Of Benin Urges Traditional Rulers To pursue peace, security, development
[dropcap]W[/dropcap]arri is an extension of Benin Kingdom and the Edos and Itsekiri are the same people from common race, declared the Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Ikenwoli, during a post-coronation Thank You Visit of the Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II to the Olu on Saturday July 14, 2018.
The Olu said in his welcome remarks that he was happy to receive the Omo N’Oba in his Palace, and assured that the bond will be stronger as he will be relating closely with the Oba of Benin on various issues.
In his speech, His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin Kingdom urged Traditional rulers to continue to work for the peace, security and development of their people.
The Oba expressed appreciation over the support and presence of the Olu of Warri and Itsekiri people during his coronation.
He said the Itsekiris and Edos share common bond and ancestry, and harped on the need for them to continue to emphasis those things that unite them rather than what will create division among the people.
The Benin Monarch described the visit as historic, and thanked them for the warm reception accorded him and his entourage.
Earlier in an address of welcome read on behalf of the Olu of Warri and Itsekiri people by Chief Brown Mene, the people said they will never forget who they are and where they came from, stressing that they share common ancient links with the Edos which have lasted over 500 years.
They said whatever boundaries that may exist between the Edos and Itsekiris are merely artificial and superficial which can neither divide nor separate them, adding that they shall remain united for the benefit of the people.
They said they will continue to extol the values by nurturing the special relationship whenever the occasion arises to do so.
The occasion witnessed the display of the rich culture and tradition of Itsekiri people.
Various gifts were later presented to His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin, which included products from the rivers in Warri Kingdom.
The Thank You Visit of the Oba of Benin to Olu of Warri, no doubt highlighted the uniqueness and exclusive significance of ties of affinity between the Edo and Itsekiri peoples.
The Omo N’Oba was accompanied on the visit by members of the Benin Royal family, including the Crown Prince, Prince Ezelekhai Ewuare, Prince Igbinidu Ewuare, Prince Ehioze Erediauwa, among other princes and princesses.
Others included Palace Chiefs, Enigie, Ohen as well as business magnate, Captain Hosa Okunbo.
