The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has praised the Edo State government under Governor Monday Okpebholo for restoring the palace’s full statutory entitlement.

He gave the commendation on Friday while receiving state journalists, led by Chairman, Festus Alenkhe, at his palace in Benin City.

The Oba said that the palace faced financial hardship due to withheld funds.

 “The palace had to bear the burden of paying staff and maintaining its environment,” the monarch stated.

 He refrained from naming who caused the financial neglect but appreciated Mr Okpebholo’s respect for tradition and the release of due funds.

 The Oba also acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts in recovering looted Benin artefacts from foreign institutions and collections.

 He stressed the value of cultural heritage and the crucial need to safeguard and preserve it for future generations.

 The Oba called on Edo residents to support the present administration so it could deliver on its electoral promises and development agenda.

The appeal underscores the importance of harmony between the traditional institution and government to achieve meaningful progress.

 Oba Ewuare also urged a constitutional review to clearly define the roles and functions of traditional rulers across the country.

 He said there must be clarity on who qualifies as a traditional ruler to avoid abuse and promote proper traditional leadership.

 This, he said, would help ensure traditional institutions function effectively within Nigeria’s evolving system of governance.

 Oba Ewuare recalled a grievance where a military regime, in spite of favours from his grandfather, built a storey building on sacred palace grounds out of spite.

 He vowed that sacred grounds taken over would be reclaimed, stressing the need to preserve historical and spiritual heritage sites.

(NAN)