Benin monarch seeks end to herdsmen attack on communities

The Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II has assured Edo people that the gruesome activities of herdsmen in the state would be curtailed as efforts to draw attention of the relevant authorities is under way.

Oba Ewuare II who gave the assurance at Ekpoma during his post coronation thank you visit to the traditional rulers and people of Esan Land also promised to provide the necessary support with Edo State government to address the herdsmen senseless killings and attack on communities.

The monarch however lamented the deplorable condition of the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi highway, calling on the Federal Government to embark on the re- construction of the highway following it urgency.

On the deposed Onojie of Uromi, the Benin Monarch said he is looking forward to receiving a delegation of traditional rulers in Esanland in his palace where the matter would be discussed on the possible ways to resolve the matter amicably.

The Oba of Benin, while commending the people for their unprecedented turnout during his epoch thank you visit as the 40th Oba of Benin.

His Royal Majesty used the opportunity to inform the people about the introduction of the concept of customary arbitration committee, also known as alternate dispute resolution committee as part of reform of palace administration to serve the needs of the people.

The Benin Monarch expressed concern over the rate of grassroots underdevelopment, youth restiveness and mass poverty among the people, pointing out that the palace of the Oba of Benin is putting palliative measures in place to help alleviate poverty.

The Benin Monarch informed the people of his various moves to ensure that Gelegele is made Export Processing Zone for Agro-Allied products, which would provide jobs and open up business opportunities in the state.

Oba Ewuare II commended Edo state Governor, Godwin Obaseki for inaugurating the task force on anti Community Development Association, and charged everyone to work conscientiously to achieve a more prosperous Edo state.

Receiving the Benin Monarch, the Onojie of Ekpoma H.R.H Anthony Abumere expressed gratitude to the Oba of Benin for the visit, describing the Oba as a father and a brother.

Anymore, who traced the historical and cultural relationship between the Benin and Esan people said they have the closest affinity in Language, culture and social etiquette.

On his part, vice chairman Edo State Traditional rulers and Chiefs, the Onojie of Opoji H.R.H Ehidiamen the first described the Oba of Benin as an astute administrator and diplomat.