By Eben Enasco Kingsley, Benin
It is no longer news that the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin Kingdom has concluded his state-wide post coronation thank you tour, with a visit to the people of Esan land in Ekpoma. What is now news is the remarkable event that took place during the visit.
The playground of Eguare Primary School in Ekpoma was filled to capacity with traditional rulers from Esan land, politicians, business moguls of Esan extraction as well as prominent sons and daughters of Esan land, including members of the Benin Community, Igbo Community and Arewa Community living in Esan land.
Different traditional dances and masquerades were on ground to display the rich cultural heritage of the people as well as add colour and glamour to the event.
The array of Palace Chiefs; members of the Benin Royal family and other dignitaries that accompanied the Oba of Benin on the visit added splendour to the ceremony which was organised to honour Oba Ewuare II, the Ogidigan of our time.
The occasion provided opportunity for Esan people to present their requests to the Oba of Benin who is father to all, and has the capacity to solve any problem confronting his people.
The Benin Monarch having listened carefully to their various requests promised to liaise with the Federal Government to address the deplorable state of the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi highway which has become nightmare to motorist and commuters.
His Royal Majesty apparently disturbed by reports of the criminal and dastard activities of cattle herdsmen in Edo State called on the relevant authorities to check the activities of herdsmen before it gets out of hand.
The Oba of Benin equally assured the people that something urgent and drastic would be done to involve all stakeholders in order to tackle the menace of cattle herdsmen in the state.
The highpoint of Oba Ewuare II address to the people of Esan land was his resolve to intervene in the case of the deposed Onojie of Uromi by Edo State Government.
However, there was a remarkable and significant event that happened during Oba Ewuare II visit to Esan land, which signifies the presence of a great king.
It was the appearance of the Moon and Sun in the sky, and as soon as the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, Chief D.U. Edebiri started praying, the two celestial bodies appeared conspicuously in the sky and it attracted everyone including journalists who were on ground to cover the event.
Explaining the significance of the appearance of the Moon and Sun to guests present, the Esogban of Benin Kingdom said it shows that a great king was in their midst, pointing out that great kings are revealed by great signs such as the appearance of the Moon and Sun.
He told the people that Oba Ewuare II, Ogidigan was actually a great Oba who should be revered by all. The Esogban reminded the people that it was the appearance of three Stars in the sky that announce the birth of Jesus Christ to the Three Wise Men.
Therefore, it must be accepted that the visit of Oba Ewuare II to Esan land usher in blessings for the people and it is a sign of better things to come for Esan people and indeed all Edos.
That explains why the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, must be revered and accorded the highest respect.
More importantly, the Oba of Benin must be supported in the onerous task of fulfilling his vision and mission for the people.
For instance, the Oba of Benin must be supported in his campaign to make Gelegele an Export Free Zone by the Federal Government.
The benefit of such project if realised would be the boosting of the state economy and creation of jobs and employment for our people.
The ban on the activities of Community Development Association in the state must be encouraged to subsist, while efforts must be made by all to
encourage the speaking, teaching and learning of our indigenous languages.
The state government can do well by directing that it should be included in the curriculum of Primary and Junior Secondary Schools in Edo State.
