The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, on Thursday declared that Governor Monday Okpebholo was divinely chosen by their ancestors to revive the fading glory of Edo State.
The monarch made this declaration during a visit by Governor Okpebholo to the Benin palace, following his triumph at the Edo Governorship Election Tribunal, which affirmed his mandate.
Describing the governor as a genuine son of the soil, Oba Ewuare invoked ancestral blessings upon him and his family, lauding him for standing firm against those attempting to derail the state’s progress.
In an extraordinary gesture, the revered Oba physically lifted Okpebholo from his kneeling posture and prophesied a wave of development during his administration.
Speaking in Edo language, the Oba said, “It shall be well with you, your wife, and children. Your journey to Edo, our ancestors approved it.
“Our ancestors brought you to restore the lost glory of Edo State, which evil doers wanted to ruin. We have been praying, and we will continue to pray for you, not to allow evil forces to destroy Edo.”
In his response, Governor Okpebholo expressed deep gratitude to the Oba for his unwavering support and prayers, both for him and the state.
He hailed the tribunal’s verdict as a monumental victory, describing it as the “sweetest judgement ever” in the state’s political history.
“This is the first time we have seen a judgment where all the judges agreed that Monday Okpebholo won the election,” he noted.
