The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for his victory at the Edo Governorship Election Tribunal, describing the outcome as a sign that his ancestors had brought him to restore the lost glory of Edo State.
During a solidarity visit by Governor Okpebholo to the Oba’s palace in Benin on Thursday, April 3, the monarch expressed his support for the governor and his administration.
The visit followed the tribunal’s ruling that upheld Okpebholo’s election as the rightful governor of the state, a decision that was widely celebrated by his supporters.
Oba Ewuare II, who spoke in Edo language, referred to Governor Okpebholo as a “true traditional son of the land” and urged his ancestors to bless him and his family for their steadfastness in the face of opposition.
The Oba expressed gratitude that the governor had not allowed the “machinations of evildoers” to derail the state’s progress.
In a powerful show of support, the Oba performed a rare gesture, lifting the governor up from his kneeling position and offering a heartfelt prayer.
“It shall be well with you, your wife, and children. Your journey to Edo, our ancestors approved it. Our ancestors brought you to restore the lost glory of Edo State, which evil doers wanted to ruin. We have been praying, and we will continue to pray for you, not to allow evil forces to destroy Edo,” he declared.
The Oba’s words carried a deep sense of history and spiritual significance, as he invoked the blessings of the ancestors over Okpebholo’s tenure as governor.
He emphasised that the governor’s victory and leadership were divinely ordained and that his success would attract more development to the state.
Governor Okpebholo’s response
Governor Okpebholo, visibly moved by the Oba’s words, thanked the monarch for his affection and support. He also expressed gratitude for the Oba’s prayers and intercession for him and the people of Edo State.
The governor described the tribunal’s ruling as historic, noting that it marked the first time a unanimous decision had been reached by a three-member panel in a gubernatorial election case in Edo State.
“This is the sweetest judgment ever, It is the first time we have seen a judgment where all the judges agreed that Monday Okpebholo won the election,” he said, reflecting on the significance of the decision.
Okpebholo expressed his commitment to working towards the development of Edo State, thanking the Oba for his support in the face of challenges.
He reaffirmed that his administration would prioritise the welfare of the people, ensuring that the state’s glory is fully restored.
