23rd October, 2023
By Jethro Ibileke
The Benin Monarch, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has called on Edo sons and daughters to unite and defend the rich customs and traditions of the Kingdom.
Oba Ewuare II said this on Sunday in Benin City, at the 7th coronation anniversary thanksgiving held at the Holy Aruosa Cathedral (Edo National Church of God).
He said: “Our unity is strength. United we stand. We should not undermine our customs and tradition. We should all hold it together. The world is already jealous of us”.
The Monarch also prayed to God and his ancestors to grant him wisdom to lead the people; look after their welfare, build resilience and remain focused on his duties.
In his goodwill message, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, described Oba Ewuare II as the rallying point of African tradition.
Agbebaku, who prayed for a peaceful reign of the Oba, added, “You [Oba Ewuare II] are not the Oba of Benin, but the Oba of the whole world”.
In his sermon, the presiding Priest of Holy Aruosa Cathedral (Edo National Church of God), Ohen-Osa Igbinoghodua Edebiri, urged Nigerians to be patient and live in righteousness by obeying the commandments of God, noting that wisdom is profitable to direct.
Holy Aruosa Cathedral choristers entertained guests and worshippers at the service with a symphony of both ancient and contemporary musical instruments, where crowds flocked to witness the historic event.