Wike Urges Oba of Benin to Wade into Edo Political Feud

Wike Urges Oba of Benin to Wade into Edo Political Feud

Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has called on Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, to wade into the political feud between Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, and his predecessor and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole.

This came as the governor urged traditional rulers from the South-south region to work in unity to advance the development of the zone.

Wike spoke yesterday during a courtesy visit by Oba of Benin at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

He called on Benin monarch to find a way to resolve the political feud between the two leaders in Edo State.

“I want to humbly call on you to wade into the political crisis in Edo State. Though you are not a politician, it is necessary for the feud to be resolved. Please find a way to address the issue,” Wike said.

The governor also said South-south traditional rulers should not be inferior or make themselves second class rulers but rather work together to advance the development of the region.

“The Oba of Benin and the Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom should not be second class to anyone. Our traditional rulers must not be relegated by anyone. We should not see ourselves as second class citizens,” he said.

Wike urged leaders of the South-south region to stop the situation where militants determine who becomes the traditional rulers.

“Militants should never dictate what happens in communities. I am talking about traditional leadership. These days, you see people of no consequence coming forward to determine who becomes a traditional ruler because they carry guns. We must perform our roles and functions,” he said.

Wike called on South-south traditional rulers to work with the governors of the zone to map out areas that require developmental interventions.

He said: “When we interact, you point out areas where you require the governors to develop and we can synergise for the good of the zone. We will work together to move the traditional institution forward. We also need the support of the traditional institution for the development of the zone.”

Earlier, Oba of Benin said his visit to Port Harcourt was in line with the tradition established by his late father.

“Following the footstep of my father who came on a thank you tour after his coronation, particularly when we recall with nostalgia my father’s public service in Ahoada many years ago, Port Harcourt and Rivers State is indeed a second home.”

Oba of Benin said his visit was aimed at strengthening friendly and close relationships between the people.

“I am here to strengthen the friendly relationship and close affinity of our people. History has it that some of the tribes here trace their ancestry to Benin. This includes the Ikweres, the people of Ahoada and Omoku,” he said.

He added that he was also in the state to meet with other traditional rulers to influence the process of development.

According to him, “I will meet with the South-south monarchs’ forum, so that we can share ideas on ways of strengthening the traditional institution in Nigeria and ensure the development and well-being of our people.

“We would like to use this opportunity of this visit to appreciate the cordial relationship between the good people of Edo State and the good people of Rivers State.”

He extended a special invitation to the government and people of Rivers State to participate in the celebration of Igue Festival.

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