Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin, has extended ties to ‘Benin descendants’ who migrated from Benin Kingdom centuries ago but living in modern day — Delta State, Nigeria.
The treasured memory was captured in Oba Palace last Thursday when Prince Ephraim Odiakosa Nwabuekei, a scion of Oba Esigie (1504-1550), paid a courtesy visit to Oba Palace in Benin City.
Oba Esigie was the first Benin King that spoke the Portuguese language and established diplomatic ties with Portugal by sending ambassadors abroad centuries ago.
The delegation from Ugbe Royal family, Onicha-Alona Community in Aniocha-North Local Government Area of Delta State was led by Nwabuekei, who affirmed that the Oba of Benin remains the father of all Benin people worldwide.
Giving a brief historical perspective on the bloodline between Ugbe Royal family, Onicha-Alona Community and the Benin Royal family, Prince Nwabuekei hailed Oba Ewuare’s cultural diplomatic exploits that led to the recovery of some looted Benin artefacts since his ascension to the throne of his forebears.
He also commended the Oba for joining forces with Edo State government over the outlawed Community Development Association and dismantling human trafficking menace.
According to him, “The Oba of Benin is the father of all Benin people no matter where they may be. Both those here – residents in Benin and those who have gone to establish other kingdoms in their capacities around the world.
“We are descendants of Oba Esigie. Both heavens and earth will bear witness to this”, he said.
Earlier, Oba Ewuare played host to the Royal family of Umu-Osiogwa at Irekpe Quarters, Onicha-Ukwu in Aniocha-North Local Government Area of Delta State, direct descendants of Princess Edoleyọ — eldest daughter of Oba Ewuare, the great.
Mr. Henry Okotie, spokesman for members of the delegation led by Sylvester Igwebuike, recalled Oba Ewuare the great (reign 1440–80), and had stint with Issele-Uku in 15th Century during his expansionist conquest.
Oba Ewuare II, who responded through a top palace functionary, Mr. Frank Irabor, sent his best wishes to the groups ahead of further consultation on their mission to the palace, according to a press statement signed by Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin.
