The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has commended the judgement of the election petition tribunal, which upheld the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo.

He made the commendation during a solidarity visit by Mr Okpebholo to his palace on Thursday in Benin.

The monarch described the governor as a true traditional son of the land.

He called on his ancestors to bless the governor and members of his household for not allowing alleged handiwork of evil doers to destroy the state.

Oba Ewuare lifted Mr Okpebholo up who was kneeling in appreciation and predicted that Okpebholo’s administration would attract more development to the state.

The Oba of Benin, who spoke in Edo Language, said: “It shall be well with you, your wife, and children. Your journey to Edo, our ancestors approved of it.

“Our ancestors brought you to restore the lost glory of Edo State, which evil doers wanted.

“We have been praying and we will continue to pray for you, not to allow evil forces to destroy Edo,” the traditional ruler said.

Responding, Mr Okpebholo thanked Oba Ewuare for his affection and intercession for him and the state.

The governor described his election victory at the tribunal as “historic and sweetest judgement ever” in history.

According to him, “The three-member panel of justices were unanimous.

“This is the first time we have seen a judgement where all the judges agreed that (Gov Okpebholo ) I won the election,” he said.

(NAN)