Benin monarch endorses Oshiomhole’s re-election

Oshiomhole

The Benin Monarch, Oba Erediauwa, has formally endorsed   Governor Adams Oshiomhole for the July 14 governorship election.
Oba Erediauwa gave his endorsement yesterday when Oshiomhole led leaders of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) to the palace for blessing and support.
The Benin monarch, who spoke through his top palace chiefs, said: “One good term deserve another.”
In a prayer by Chief Sam Igbe, the Iyasere of Benin Kingdom, the Oba urged Oshiomhole to start celebrating.
He said: “We will not reward evil with good. God will give you strength. The only way to thank you for what you have done is through our votes. Whoever wants to contest this election should come and say what he has done.”
The Esogban of Benin, David Edebiri, said he refused to be at the palace when the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Maj-Gen Charles Airhiavbere, visited because he did not want to pray for him.
 Esogban said it does not matter whether he was accused of being partisan and described Oshiomhole as ‘a Benin candidate’.
“What is it about that we are involved in politics? The Oba of Benin is the embodiment of politics. 
“We want to appreciate Oshiomhole by voting for him. I pronounce him our candidate. The oracle has spoken. Anybody who wants to go against the decision of the oracle should wait for the battle,” he said.
Oba Erediauwa said: “My chiefs have spoken through prayers. We are waiting to see what happens. Goodluck to you.”
Oshiomhole told the monarch that the World Bank has approved $100million grant for the Benin Storm Water project.
Oshiomhole noted that World Bank representatives were happy with the level of work done, adding that it (World Bank) hoped to urge other states to emulate the state’s design.
“We will discreetly restructure Benin City so that during your reign, you will see a beautiful city. With your support, I will take Edo State to the next level.
“We believe we will do better in our second term because we have a House of Assembly that is supportive. Even the international community has recognised out efforts.”