…Urges FG to expedite completion of Benin-Auchi Express Road
Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu has extolled the virtues of the Otaru of Auchi Sacred kingdom, HRH lkelebe III, even as he attributed the peace and tranquillity being enjoyed by the people to the uncommon leadership disposition of the royal father.
The Deputy Governor made the remarks during the Annual Auchi Day Celebration which was held at the palace ground of the Otaru in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
Shaibu reiterated the determination of the present administration to bring development to Auchi and other communities in the State while soliciting the support of traditional rulers in ensuring a conducive environment for more investors and investments to thrive in the State.
According to the state number two citizen, “the celebration of Auchi day has become a meeting-point for the convergence of all sons and daughters of the Auchi Sacred Kingdom, both at home and in the diaspora, including friends and well-wishers to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the kingdom and exchange progressive ideas for its advancement”.
“It’s on record that the reign of the Otaru of Auchi has ushered-in development, peace, unity and mutual co-existence among the people and its neighbouring communities”.
He commended the Otaru for his royal candour, charismatic leadership and fatherly disposition, since his ascension to the throne of his forebears.
On the 2023 general elections, Shaibu called on Nigerians to make good use of their PVCs by voting for credible and God-fearing leaders of their choice.
He appealed to the Federal Government to intensify efforts in completing the rehabilitation of the Benin – Auchi express road; while warning politicians in the State not to play politics with roads already awarded by Edo State Government.
Harping on the significance of the celebration, HRH Otaru of Auchi noted that before his enthronement, he had requested his immediate predecessor to declare a day of cultural extravaganza for the people of Auchi Kingdom which was agreed, but could not commence before his demise.
According to the Otaru, it was for this reason upon ascending the throne, he introduced the Auchi Day Celebration to enable the people to showcase their culture to preserve it.
The Otaru charged traditional rulers and politicians to see themselves as representatives of the Almighty God and the people. He stressed the need for leaders to lead according to the word of God, adding that “peace will always elude any society where injustice is allowed to reign”.
The Royal Father expressed gratitude to the guests who attended the colourful ceremony, while appreciating Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, and other citizens for supporting the growth of the annual event.
The high point of the celebration was the award of a full-time scholarship by the Deputy Governor to a young undergraduate, Abubakar Harah Lami, who did a portrait of the revered monarch as well as the presentation of cash prizes to deserving winners of the Otaru competitive games.
The celebration attracted prominent citizens of Afemai Land, including the Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, and Senator Francis Alimikhena, amongst others.