CALABAR- The Etubom Traditional Council, the highest traditional decision-making body in Efik Kingdom, Calabar, Cross River State has commended the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II for his historical thank you visit to Calabar, adding that late Oba Eradiauwa was a true patriot and gentle monarch who contributed immensely to the growth and development of Nigeria.
The commendation was given during the thank you visit of Oba Ewuare II to the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V in Calabar on Saturday.
Delivering the group’s welcome address, the Chairman of Etubom Traditional Council, HRH Etubom Bassey Okor Bassey Duke said that the historical harmony between Benin and Efik Kingdoms necessitated the visit of Oba Ewuare II to Calabar City.
He said: “This historical harmony that has necessitated this thank you tour to Calabar today (Saturday) in which two First Class Natural Rulers and Treaty Kings from the South-South geographical zone of the country, whose forebears had very early contact with the European merchants.
“Especially the Portuguese, through maritime ventures and signed various treaties with them, will further oil their royal templates to accommodate contemporary issues of very significance to the development of their domains, the region and the country at large.
“On the strength of the subsisting understanding, we wish to commended Oba Ewuare II for this visit and who in the course of his livelihood had transversed many countries in Europe, Africa, America and Asia and the country at large as a career diplomat”, he said
He disclosed that upon arriving Calabar in February, 1897, Oba Ovonramwen N’Ogbasi lived in peace with notably with late Etinyin Etim Offiong III and married one of his daughters .
In a similar development, the Edo Community in Cross River State have congratulated the Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II over his historical visit to Calabar town.
Delivering the group’s address of welcome, the former Chairman Mr. Osagie Omoregbee said that the members of the association were elated to receive the Oba in Calabar, adding tha they have been good ambassadors of the rich cultural heritage of Benin and by extension, Edp State in Cross River State.
While congratulating the Benin Monarch on his recently celebrated third coronation anniversary, Mr.Omoregbee lauded Oba Ewuare II for his giant development strides his reign has brought to Edo State in the past three years.
Meanwhile, a royal banquet was organised for the Benin Monarch and his entourage by the Obong of Calabar His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V yesterday in Calabar.
