OBA of Benin, Oba Erediauwa, has denied what he described as “certain mischievous publications in some national newspapers” that he shunned President Goodluck Jonathan and the leadership of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, during their visit to Benin, weekend.
It will be recalled that the President and PDP leadership were in Edo State to attend a campaign rally in support of Major-Gen. Charles Airhiavbere (rtd), the party’s governorship candidate for the July 14, 2012 election and were at the palace of the Benin monarch for the customary courtesy call on him.
Reports that Oba Erediauwa did not come out to receive the President had fueled suggestions that the Benin monarch shunned the President and members of his entourage.
Reacting on Monday, the Benin Traditional Council in a statement issued in Benin by Mr. Frank Irabor, Secretary to the council, explained that “in fact, it is the respect and love the Oba has for Mr. President, that made him see our President in his private chamber in the Palace despite a complicated situation on that day.
“The public is reminded that three weeks ago, the Oba waited for over two hours in his open office, where he received the Vice – President, Dr. Namadi Sambo and PDP chieftains that were in Benin for their political rally.”
The Benin monarch advised politicians to avoid violence in the forth coming governorship election in the state, saying that political office occupation should not be seen as a do or die affair.
VanguardonLine