Dignitaries thronged Benin City last Saturday for the birthday of Bini Monarch, Omo N’ Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa. OSAGIE OTABOR reports
The ancient City of the Benin The ancient city of Benin was agog last Saturday when its revered monarch, Omo N’ Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa celebrated his birthday.
The palace walls and some streets in the city were adorned with banners by individuals and corporate organisations wishing the king well.
As part of the celebration, a children’s party was held. It featured dancing competition and cultural troupes.
The wives of the Oba were in attendance. They gorgeously dressed and surrounded by maids.
Entertainment was provided by DJ Darmix and Osaretin Cultural Group.
There was a re-launch of a book written by the monarch, I Remain Sir, Your Loyal Servant.
The event was well attended.
On the D-day, a birthday dinner was organised to celebrate the revered monarch at the palace ground. The venue was decorated with white to signify purity. Beautiful female ushers dressed in Benin attire took dignitaries to their tables.
Many struggled to gain access into the tent where the reception was held.
Different cultural troupes performed to add glamour to the event.
Guests were treated to a three-course meal of Nigerian and foreign cuisine. Assorted wines and drinks were served.
Oba Erediauwa was not present, but his presence was felt. The cake was white and adorned with beads which symbolise purity of the monarch. The Oba is the only authority to present beads to individuals.
The Oba was represented by his son, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa, who thanked all for celebrating his dad.
His queens who are rarely seen in public were led by Olori Esther Erediauwa.
Governor Adams Oshiomhole, in his toast to the monarch, said the Benin monarch has contributed to the growth of the country by serving in various capacities before retiring as a permanent secretary.
He described the monarch as a bridge builder.
Others who gave toast were Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Cromwell Idahosa, Hon Patrick Obahiagbon, and Chief Eduwu Ekhator.
The Crown Prince, who was surrounded by the queens during the cutting of the cake, described the cake as special.
The celebration climaxed with a thanksgiving at the Holy Arosa Church on Akpakpava Street.
Dignitaries included Aidonogie of South Ibie, Kelvin Danesi, State Secretary of (Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the Onojie of Ewatto Chief Osaro Idah; Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dr Pius Odubu; Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, Samson Osagie; Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN); member representing Oredo Federal Constituency Rasaq Bello Osagie; Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly Hon Uyi Igbe and other members of Edo South in the National Assembly.
Others are Mr Osarodion Ogie members of the Edo State Executive Council; members of the House of Assembly, traditional rulers from Delta State, Edo North and Central senatorial districts
