Dance performances by the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) women’s group to the delight of the Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin, captured attention during the weekend at Oba Palace in Benin City.

A press statement signed by Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin, notes that the moment shows how the Royal personage has amazingly embraced modernity and is carrying out traditional duties in a convivial atmosphere.

The women were there with excitement in show of affection to the Oba as they sang, danced, clapped and cheered to the unwavering dedication and milestones recorded during the historical era of Oba Ewuare II, who is billed to mark his eighth Coronation Anniversary on October 20, 2024.

Speaking about the group’s mission, Mrs. Itohan Osahon Edokpolor, the Edo South Senatorial District APC women’s leader, commended Oba Ewuare for his prayers and peaceful reign.

She expressed gratitude to God Almighty and Oba Ewuare’s forebears for strengthening the Royal father to overcome his challenges after repeated moments that test his nerves, and averting doomsday predictions that Saturday, September 21 Edo State governorship election will be violent, but the exercise turned out to be generally peaceful.

The former chairperson of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Council solicited for continuous prayer and support from the traditional institution to enable the next administration to succeed and take development of the state to higher heights.

According to her, “In this jubilation mood after the peaceful election, it’s important to show our gratitude to God Almighty and our Royal father for your prayers that averted bloodshed in the Edo election.

“We pray that the administration of Senator Monday Okpebholo will record steady progress, respect traditional institutions. We pray that God will use him to his glory and honour those who truly deserve to be honoured”.

Responding through a prominent Benin Palace functionary, Mr Frank Irabor, the Oba enjoined the women not to renege in their individual worship and prayers for the peace of Nigeria.

He also assured the group that the Palace will continue to project the well-being of Edo people and their heritage at home and the diaspora.