Saraki mourns Oba of Benin, commiserates with Edo govt

The Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has commiserated with the government and people of Edo over the demise of the Oba of Benin, Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa.

Omo n’Oba Akpolokpolo

Saraki, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Mr Yusuph Olaniyonu, described the late Oba as a just, fair-minded, courageous, benevolent and people-oriented monarch.

The statement, which was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja, said the Oba lived his life in the service of his people.

“A glorious chapter in the annals of the Benin Kingdom has just come to a close. My heart goes out to the immediate family of the Oba.

“My heart also goes out to Benin Traditional Council, people and Government of Edo State, over the glorious but sad exit of the Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa, our highly revered King.

“He was a fearless and pious monarch and he possessed attributes that distinguished him from other monarchs in the country,’’ Saraki said.

He said the late Oba would be missed because he was an embodiment of peace and also promoted the culture and traditions of Benin Kingdom in particular and Nigeria in general.

The senate president prayed that Almighty God would grant the soul of the late Oba eternal rest.

He also prayed for a worthy successor who would positively advance his legacies.

NAN