Transition of Oba of Benin a great national loss – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the passing away of the highly revered traditional ruler of Benin Kingdom, Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa.

A statement issued in Abuja on Friday by the president’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, said president Buhari described the death of the Oba as a great national loss.

Oba of Benin, Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa of Benin kingdom

Buhari extended his condolences and that of the Federal Government to Gov. Adams Oshiomhole, the people of Benin Kingdom and Edo State on the passage of the beloved monarch, who had ruled over his people since his ascension to the throne in 1979.

The President also extended special commiserations to Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa and other members of the late Oba’s immediate family.

President Buhari assured them of the fullest sympathy and solidarity of the federal government and all Nigerians as they mourned the late Oba.

According to him, Oba Erediauwa will always be remembered as one of the most outstanding traditional rulers of his era.

“As the late Oba goes to join his very illustrious royal ancestors, President Buhari believes that his place of honour in the history of the Benin Kingdom and Nigeria has been assured by his long and highly successful career as a public servant, administrator and chief custodian of the much celebrated culture and traditions of his people,’’ the statement added.

The President prayed that God Almighty would receive the late Oba’s soul and grant him peaceful repose.

He also prayed that God would grant “Crown Prince Erediauwa the wisdom and courage he will require to build on the laudable legacies of Oba Erediauwa.’’