FG restates support for traditional institutions

• Oshiomhole apologises to Igbinedion on his 90th birthday

The Federal Government has reiterated its unwavering support for traditional institutions in Nigeria, pledging to continue to respect the role of royal fathers in nation-building.

It noted that traditional rulers have an age-long practice of sustaining peace and preserving the culture of their people.

Vice President Kashim Shettima made this pledge, on Saturday, when he paid homage to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, in his palace, while on a visit to Benin City, the Edo State capital, for the grand finale of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial campaign ahead of next Saturday’s governorship election in the state.

The Vice President maintained that the administration is committed to engaging with traditional rulers to tap into their wisdom.

He stated: “I assure you of the Federal Government’s unwavering support for traditional institutions like yours. Our administration recognises the crucial role that traditional rulers play as custodians of our cultural heritage and as key stakeholders in national development.

“You play a great role in fostering peace, unity and progress in our great country. Your role in conflict resolution, promoting harmonious coexistence and guiding our youths cannot be overemphasised.”

Shettima also solicited the royal father’s blessings for the APC governorship candidate, Monday Opkebhole, as the state goes to the polls on Saturday to elect a new governor.

Responding, Oba Ewuare II, who thanked the Vice President for visiting him, solicited the Federal Government’s support for the construction of the Benin Royal Museum.

MEANWHILE, a former governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, has publicly sought forgiveness from the Esama of Benin, Gabriel Igbinedion, for any past wrongs during his tenure as governor.

During a goodwill message during a banquet to mark Igbinedion’s 90th birthday on Saturday in Benin, Oshiomhole described Igbinedion as a good father.

He praised the elder statesman’s contributions to society, taking the opportunity to seek atonement. Oshiomhole expressed gratitude for the advice and guidance Igbinedion provided him.
  
“As a Catholic, I want to confess that I might have done some things I shouldn’t have done as governor. At 90, it is only right that I ask for your forgiveness for any of my actions that may have irritated you,” he added.