The pan Esan socio cultural organization, Esan Okpa Initiative (EOI) has effusively poured encomiums on the virtues of wisdom, strength, and benevolence of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, saluting him for promoting peace and harmony amongst all the people of Edo State.

Eulogising the Benin monarch on his birthday and 8th anniversary on the throne, the organization in a letter signed by its President, Rt Hon Mathew Egbadon and Public Relations Officer, Mr Tony Iyare, also commended his worthy and sterling  leadership qualities, noting that, “Under your leadership, the Bini Kingdom has flourished, embracing and protecting its rich heritage while navigating the challenges of modernity.”

“You have not only preserved the traditions that define the Edolites, but has also inspired unity and progress among the Edolites,” maintains the group which is concerned with the promotion of the interests of the Esan people located in the Edo Central Senatorial Zone.

Lauding the Omo N’Oba on his intervention over the agitation for an Edo Governor of Esan extraction, which later defined the character of the discourse,  Esan Okpa says, “ We remain eternally grateful Your Royal Majesty, for your guidance and vision” while thanking him immensely for the warm reception accorded a delegation of Esan elders led by the traditional rulers that visited his palace to broach the then raging issue.

“ We once again, thank you immensely for the warm and fatherly reception you accorded a delegation of Esan people(including members of our Association), led by the Royal fathers in Esan land, during our visit to your palace last year, to solicit your support and prayers for the next Governor of Edo State to come from Esan land in the interest of equity, fairness and justice.

“Your usual sense of fairness and love for all, was brought to bear on the interaction you had with our delegation on that occasion; and we believe the visit helped to shape the conversations about the next governor for the state after the visit,” the organization stated.

Addressed to His Royal Majesty, OMO ‘NOBA NEDO, OBA EWUARE II, the letter reads in parts:

“On this momentous occasion of your 8th anniversary on the revered throne of your forebears and your birthday, we, the members of the Esan Okpa Initiative, extend our warmest and most heartfelt congratulations to your Royal Majesty.

“Your reign has been a testament to the virtues of wisdom, strength, and benevolence.

“Under your esteemed leadership, the Bini kingdom has flourished, embracing and protecting its rich heritage while navigating the challenges of modernity.

“You have not only preserved the traditions that define the Edolites, but has also inspired unity and progress among the Edolites.

“Your Royal Majesty, as you celebrate these significant milestones, we honor your unwavering dedication to the welfare and inclusiveness of all Edolites, as well as your tireless efforts in promoting peace and harmony among the peoples.

“We once again, thank you immensely for the warm and fatherly reception you accorded a delegation of Esan people(including members of our Association), led by the Royal fathers in Esan land, during our visit to your palace last year, to solicit your support and prayers for the next Governor of Edo State to come from Esan land in the interest of equity, fairness and justice.

“Your usual sense of fairness and love for all, was brought to bear on the interaction you had with our delegation on that occasion; and we believe the visit helped to shape the conversations about the next governor for the state after the visit. We remain eternally grateful Your Royal Majesty, for your guidance and vision.

“May this double celebration be filled with joy, love, and gratitude from all those whose lives you have touched. We wish you continued excellent health, wisdom, and prosperity as you lead us all in Edo State into a brighter future.

“With utmost respect and admiration, Your Royal Majesty.

“Oba gha tor kperee! Iseee!, the letter concluded.