The Edo State Government says it has withdrawn the letter earlier issued approving the new Oba of Benin.
The state government, in a retraction signed by the Secretary to State Government, Julius Ihonvbere, on Wednesday, May 25, 2016, explained that the earlier letter was issued in error.
Ihonvbere noted that, “In deference to the revered age-long tradition and respect for the sensibilities of the people of the great Benin Kingdom, the Government of Edo State hereby withdraws a letter issued on 24th May 2016 entitled: “Appointment of His Royal Highness Edaiken N’Uselu, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa as the Oba of Benin.”
The state government further explained that, “The said letter was issued in error as the rites of passage of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba of Benin are still on.”
It stated that in due course, it will “issue a fresh letter on the installation of the Edaiken N’Uselu, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa, as the Oba of Benin, in line with the age-long succession tradition of the Benin Kingdom and in line with Section 19 (1) of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Law, 1979 (as amended) and by virtue of all other laws enabling it in that behalf, after all necessary traditional rites are concluded.”
On Tuesday, Ihonvebere had disclosed that the state government, through the governor, Adams Oshiomhole, approved the appointment of Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa as the Oba of Benin, with effect from April 29, 2016.
