Oba Erediauwa was an epitome of royalty – Okowa

Oba Erediauwa was an epitome of royalty – Okowa

— 30th April 2016

From Paul Osuyi, Asaba

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has said he received with sadness and an immense feeling of great national loss, news of the translation of the highly revered traditional ruler of Benin Kingdom, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa I, CFR, the 38th Oba of Benin Kingdom.

In a statement issued in Asaba by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu described the late foremost traditional ruler in Nigeria as an epitome of royalty, and extended special condolences to the Edo State Government, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa, other members of the late Oba’s immediate family and the entire Benin Kingdom.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I extend my sincere condolences to Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa, the people of Benin Kingdom and Edo State on the passage of the beloved monarch who had ruled over his people in the past 37 years since his ascension to the throne in 1979,” the statement read.

According to the statement, “Governor Okowa joins them in mourning the revered traditional ruler who will be long remembered and celebrated for his worthy service, over more than three decades, as the Chief Custodian of the traditions of the Binis and his invaluable contributions to the sustenance of the cultural heritage of his people within and outside Nigeria.”

The statement said the Governor noted that the late Oba of Benin would also be remembered for his notable contributions to the development of his kingdom, state and country as a leading administrator, retired permanent secretary and inspirational traditional ruler.

It further stated that the late monarch lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation and urged the people of Benin Kingdom to honor the late monarch by living in peace and harmony.

According to Aniagwu, the Governor prayed God to grant the people of the kingdom the fortitude to bear the loss and also for wisdom for the Crown Prince to ascend the ancient throne of his forefathers.