The Edo State Government has clarified that it has no case against Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo contrary to reports that it instituted a suit over the custody of the Benin artefacts
In a statement on Thursday by the Special Adviser (media projects) to Governor Godwin Obaseki, Crusoe Osagie, it stated that the report was the handiwork of enemies of the State.
The statement urged the public to ignore such fabricated lies as the State Government enjoys a harmonious relationship with the Royal Fathers in the State.
“The Edo State Government has no case in court against our revered Royal Father, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin,” the statement read.
“The rumour making the rounds on social media of an impending court case is the handiwork of enemies of the State and should be disregarded.
“As a matter of fact, in the matter being referenced by the purveyors of the fake news, the Edo State Government is a defendant, which means the State government is being sued.
“The State Government maintains a cordial relationship with the Royal Palace and holds the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, Ogidigan, in high esteem.”
“The rumour is fabricated, fake and should be discountenanced in its entirety.
“It is election season again and fifth columnists are at work.
“The State Government is committed to sustaining a harmonious relationship with all stakeholders in the State and will always work to ensure cordial relations with all critical institutions in society as part of its mandate to maintain a stable environment for the growth and progress of the State.”
On Thursday, Palace chiefs from different groups, members of the Benin royal family, priests, priestesses, and well-wishers of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II turned up at the premises of the Edo State High Court, Sapele Road in a show of solidarity with the Oba and the palace over a legal action instituted against the Oba by two suspended Enigies (Dukes).
