Oba Of Benin Urges Governors To Support President Tinubu, Promote Peace And Unity

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The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, CFR, has called on Nigerian governors to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by fostering peace and unity across the country, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic differences.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on Nigerians to embrace active lifestyles, community engagement, and the unifying power of sports, describing them as critical drivers of national health, peace, and cohesion. Governor Okpebholo made the call on Saturday through his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, during the flag-off of the 2025 Olympic Day Celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City. This year’s theme, “Let’s Move Together for Health and Active Community,” marked the annual global commemoration of the birth of the modern Olympic movement, inspired by Pierre de Coubertin. While traditionally observed on June 23 globally, Nigeria marked it on June 28. Representing the Governor, Deputy Governor Idahosa described the Olympic Day as a reminder of the transformative power of sports, urging citizens to prioritize physical activity and social inclusion. “Olympic Day serves as an ideal occasion to move. Sport fortifies both our mind and body, promotes well-being, and inspires us to dream. It ignites joy and fosters unity,” Idahosa stated. He emphasized that beyond physical fitness, sports foster social bonds and a collective sense of purpose, transcending cultural, social, and political divides. “This day is more than a celebration, it is a movement. It reminds us that no matter our background or pace, we belong to one global sporting family,” he added. Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, reiterated the inclusive spirit of the Olympic Day, stressing that it was less about competition and more about participation, unity, and shared values. “This run is not about who finishes first, but about showing up, staying active, and embracing togetherness, equality, and resilience,” Enabulele noted. He commended sponsors, volunteers, and participants, describing their enthusiasm as a strong endorsement of the ideals of health, peace, and sportsmanship. The event featured over 300 athletes budding and elite including notable figures like Nigerian swimmer Rachael Tonjor, who competed at the 2016 Rio Olympics, and 1972 Olympic boxing bronze medalist Isaac Ikhuoria. The early morning fitness run kicked off from the Main Bowl of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium at about 8:00 AM, moving through Ekehuan Road, Oba Ovonramwen Square, Plymouth Road, Akenzua Street, and back to the stadium. Residents and motorists lined the designated routes, cheering as participants including Edo State Sports Commission cyclists performing choreographed displays jogged past. The celebration climaxed with the presentation of certificates of participation to the Deputy Governor and other participants, reinforcing the day’s inclusive, festive, and symbolic spirit.

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Oba Ewuare II made the appeal on Saturday, June 28, 2025, when he received a delegation of governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at his Palace in Benin City, Edo State.

The revered monarch commended President Tinubu’s efforts in steering the country through a challenging period, noting that despite criticisms, the President remains focused on uniting the nation a burden common to leaders across the globe.

He also lauded Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for according due respect and recognition to traditional institutions in the state, urging other governors to support his administration.

Speaking on behalf of the visiting governors, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, thanked the Oba for his continued prayers and guidance. He assured the Benin throne that Governor Okpebholo remains committed to fulfilling his campaign promises, including reducing poverty and enhancing infrastructure development across key sectors in Edo State.

The APC governors were joined by some senators elected on the party’s platform, along with two cabinet ministers from President Tinubu’s administration.

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