Edo government to present staff of office to the Oliola of Uzanu

The people of Uzanu in South East Uneme in Etsako East Local Council of Edo State have begun preparation for the official presentation of staff of office to their traditional ruler, the Oliola of Uzanu, His Royal Majesty, Benjamin Ikani by Edo State government, thus making him a first-class traditional ruler.

With this, Uneme Clan, which before its creation by the Adams Oshiomhole’s administration was subject to the Okumagbe of Uwanu in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, will now be upgraded and join the league of first class in the state.

The clan heads of Uneme towns and villages alongside prominent sons and daughters are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the occasion is memorable.

An excited Oliola of Uzanu, who spoke with Palace Watch, said: “December 28, 2018, is the day Uneme people have been awaiting all these years. To a stranger that does not know all the struggle, persecutions and discrimination Uneme people suffered over the years, will not properly understand the meaning of what is about to happen to the people and clan.”

The traditional ruler said the presentation of staff of office to him could be likened to South Africa gaining deserved independence after a long, bloody and nasty struggle. He thanked the Lord that the much-awaited day was about to come.

He said despite past ugly experiences, his people haboured no ill feeling toward anyone, and that the staff of office is the tonic his people require to make their contribution to the development of Etsako East Local Government Area and Edo State.

He explained that Uneme people’s resolve is to make his clan the agro industrial hub of Edo State. He noted that the zeal and skill with which Uneme people of old perfected their trade as blacksmiths would be transferred to make Uneme clan the food basket of Edo State.

He said: “The presentation of staff of office will provide my people the opportunity to showcase their unique customs and traditions. Unlike before I ascended the throne, when there was absolutely nothing on ground in terms of development and provision of basic amenities, prominent Uneme sons and daughters home and abroad, started responding to my appeal to help develop the place.

“What is required now, is for Edo government to complement these efforts, so that Uneme will begin to enjoy what other clans and people have been enjoying over the years.”

He thanked former Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the incumbent, Governor Godwin Obaseki, for helping Uneme realise the long-awaited dream of having a first class king.