Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa says Oba Ewuare II’s 10-year reign has strengthened unity among the Benin people and sustained the kingdom’s cultural identity.

Mr Idahosa said this in a congratulatory message from his chief press secretary, Friday Aghedo, marking the monarch’s 10th coronation anniversary.

He said the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the Oba’s leadership, preservation of Benin traditions and commitment to peace and communal harmony.

According to him, Oba Ewuare II’s role as custodian of the kingdom’s ancestral heritage remains important to preserving the cultural identity of the Benin people.

The deputy governor said the traditional institution also played an important role in promoting social cohesion and encouraging younger generations to uphold their forebears’ values.

Mr Idahosa, who described himself as a proud son of the Benin Kingdom, joined the Benin royal family, palace chiefs and other sons and daughters of the kingdom in celebrating the milestone.

He urged the people of Benin to use the anniversary to renew their commitment to peace, unity and the continued development of the kingdom.

He prayed for God’s continued protection, sound health, wisdom and strength for the royal father and wished him many more years on the throne.

He expressed optimism that the Oba’s reign would continue to bring peace and prosperity to the Benin Kingdom.

(NAN)