From Tony Osauzo and Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, yesterday, held a thanksgiving service at the Holy Arousa Cathedral located along Akpakpava street in Benin City.
The monarch, who was accompanied by top palace chiefs stepped inside the church shortly after a cow was killed at the entrance.
The Holy Aruosa church is believed to have been built in the 15th Century.
The church Priest, Ohenosa Harrison Okao said the church was built during the reign of Oba Ewuare I.
He said the reign of Oba Ewuare II would be a reflection of the achievements of his predecessor and lsitedachievements of Oba Ewuare I to include introduction of the use of coral beads, which he said was brought from the river goddess, establishment of the Edaiken N’ Uselu title and several titles.
“There was nothing Oba Ewuare I could not do. He introduced the wearing of Ododo (red attires) and conquered many towns. It was during Ewuare I that the Portuguese first came to Benin. He introduced tribal marks and did many great things,” he said.
Giving insights into how the reign of Oba Ewuare II will affect the people, Ohenosa Okao said the new Oba will introduce many reforms that will uplift the social and economic life of the people. He, however, warned against lying to the new Oba to curry favours and the taking-over of many villages by youths, under the guise of Community Development Association.
Besides, he said Oba Ewuare II will not accept diversion of funds meant for development of the state by politicians.
He, therefore, warned Enigies (Dukes) and Odionwere (village heads) to reside in their respective domains rather than ruling from Benin City.
“Many good things are going to come but what he wants is the truth and doing of good things.”
The church service was attended by the who is who in the society, palace chiefs and the king’s immediate family.
“Our new Oba reign will bring peace and development to this kingdom,” he said.
Giving the vote of thanks, Chief David Edebiri, the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, thanked the sons and daughters of the kingdom for honouring the Oba.
He said the reign of the Oba of Benin will bring peace, progress and development to the kingdom.
The palace chief also prayed for the sons and daughters of the land in the diaspora to be prosperous in their various chosen careers.
