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Showing posts from October, 2023

Edo 2024: Fr. Andrew Obinyan: The Quintessential Priest For The Job

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By Emmanuel Oke The political landscape is often filled with the same faces and promises, leaving many citizens yearning for a leader who brings integrity, moral principles, and genuine concern for the people's welfare. In the upcoming Edo Governorship Contest in 2024, the candidacy of Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Obinyan, the Catholic Priest of St. Francis Catholic Church, presents a refreshing opportunity for the people of Edo State. Traditional politicians are often self-serving, seeking power to further their personal interests. Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Obinyan, however, embodies the virtues of service, humility, and selflessness that have defined his life as a clergyman. The people of Edo State are yearning for a fearless leader who prioritizes the collective welfare of the people above personal ambitions and political gain. Fr. Obinyan's lifelong commitment to serving the community and his compassion for the less privileged demonstrate his genuine desire to effect positiv

Bad Road: Distraught Residents, Motorists, Commuters To Heave Sigh Of Relief Soon

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By Chris Tony Akhabue The protest by youths of Ikpoba Hill in Ikpoba Okha local government area of Edo state as a result of the deplorable situation of the road which started Tuesday last week may have started attracting government attention as the trucks of hard core the government was said to have promised the protesting youths have started arriving. The protesting youths have started dismantling the barricades to pave the way for the remedial work expected to be done on the road for which catapillers have been deployed several days before now. According to the Chairman of Ikpoba Hill Youths Forum, Comrade Kingsley Osemwigie, who spoke with the Champion Newspaper correspondent said that the expected palliative measure they have been clamouring for has begun with the deployment of several trucks of hard core by the Edo state government. According to him," his Excellency has really shown that he is a leader with a listening ear and we appreciate his response and we

Edo 2024: Tony Erah's Needless Outburst Against Ohonbamu's Call for Equity

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By Osarobo Igbinomwanhia Penultimate week, a Benin based legal practitioner and human rights activist, Paul Ohonbamu appeared on political talk shows on Television Continental (TVC), Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Channels Television; to discuss the imperatives of zoning the Edo 2024 governorship slot to Edo Central Senatorial District. Ohonbamu who is also known as "Equity", as he always call for equity, fairness and justice in all his engagements, again hinged his call for zoning the governorship slot to Edo Central on "Equity". Ohonbamu whose call for equity in Edo governorship race is not ex nihilo advanced several reasons to buttress his call.  One of his reasons is the undisputed fact that by the end of the present administration in November 2024,  Edo South Senatorial District would have ruled the state for sixteen years, while Edo North has had its turn for eighth years, with Edo Central occupying the same position for mere eighteen mont

Benin - Agbor Road Protest Enters Day 6, Youths Insist Road Must Be Fixed

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...we are determined to see the road repaired-- Barr Omoruyi  By Chris Tony Akhabue There seems to be no respite in sight for the agonizing residents, motorists and Commuters on the Benin- Agbor Express Way as protest by Ikpoba Hill Youth enters the sixth day. Recall on Tuesday last week that the Youths of Ikpoba Hill in Ikpoba Okha local government area of Edo state took to the streets to protest the deplorable situation of the Benin-Agbor road and in the process barricaded the road leading to Agbor in Delta and other South South States. The blockage which has successfully cripple commercial activities in the area is likely not going to be over soon as it is alleged that neither the Edo state governor nor any of his representatives has visited the scene of the protest to address the agrieved youth who have barricaded the express way since Tuesday last week. Responding to the Press, Comrade Osazee Aigbovho Ehijiator, a resident of the community said that the road has

(Dr) Dorry Okojie Commiserates With Ugbesia Family Over Mother's Death.

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A Frontline aspirant in the 2024 Edo state governorship election on the platform of Labour Party (LP), Dr Dorry Okojie has said that the passing away of the matriarch of the Ugbesias, Mama Adetubu Ugbesia (Nee Okosor) on Friday October 27, 2023 was a big loss not only to the family but to the entire people of Edo state but also worthy of celebration having attained the age of 101 years of age. This was contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to the Press earlier today Sunday October 29, 2023 in Benin city, the state capital. According to him, "I wish to convey my condolences to the Ugbesias--Odion and Akhere over the passing of their mother, Mama Adetubu Ugbesia, the Matriarch of the family at the ripe age of 101 years. "Mama Adetubu was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of everyone around her with her warmth, love, and kindness. Her presence will be truly missed, and her legacy will continue to live on through her family and lo

Fr Obinyan Commiserate with Ugbesias Over Passage Of Matriarch

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A frontline Edo 2024 Governorship Aspirant and the Parish Priest of St. Francis Catholic Church, Very Rev Fr Obinyan has said that it was saddening to hear of the passage of Mama Edetubu Ugbesia, the Matriarch of the Ugbesia Dynasty of Ubiaja Kingdom in Esan South-East local government area. He described late Mama Edebutu Ugbesia as community leader, mouthpiece of the women demography, a notable socialite and a mobilizer, and above all, a mother in the true sense of it. This was contained in a statement issued on behalf of Fr. Obinyan Campaign Organization by Rev Fr Obinyan himself and made available to newsmen in Benin City. Fr Obinyan noted that the death of Mama Edetubu Ugbesia is saddening particularly at a time in the annals of our history as a people in dire need of wisdom, counselling and motherly love. "It is indeed a great loss not only to the Ugbesia family but to us all as Edo people. But we are consoled with the good life she lived and the realization that
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Commercial Activities Grounded Along Benin- Agbor Express Way As Protest Enters Day 5 The protest by Ikpoba hill youths led by Kingsley Osemwigie as a result of the deplorable condition of the Benin- Agbor Express Way which enters the fifth day today has paralysed commercial activities in and around the vicinity stretching from the First Bank area of Ikpoba Okha local government area to as far as Two sisters in Edo state. The blockage mounted in strategic axis of the road starting from around First Upstairs area and another before the popular Agbor Park market and yet another around Ogbeson Primary School in Agbor Park in Ohovbe and Ogbeson quarters and several others around Benin Depot, one in front of Christ Chosen Church Of God, and another at Winners Chapel have completely crippled commercial activities in the area as heavy duty trucks and trailers littering the road have created a chaotic situations making vehicular movement impossible. Speaking to the Press at the

Edo 2024: Dr Dorry Okojie, Home Boy Who Truly Understands Edo

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As the Edo State 2024 governorship election draws closer, the race for the governorship seat is becoming more competitive. Among the array of aspirants, one name that stands out is Dr Dorry Okojie whose understanding of Edo State will no doubt, prove to be a significant advantage in his bid to reposition Edo to attain its full potentials when elected as governor of the state.  His comprehensive understanding of the state will enable him to identify the specific needs and challenges facing the state. Having an in-depth knowledge of the state's history, culture, and geography, he is well-equipped to understand the unique problems that the people of Edo State face. This understanding will enable him to develop targeted policies and programs that would address these issues. His familiarity with Edo State’s diverse communities and their respective needs will allow him to tailor his governance approach to cater to the specific requirements of each district. Additionally,

Benin -Agbor Road Blockage Enters Day 4

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The Popular Benin -Agbor road linking Edo state to Agbor in Delta and other Eastern states which has been locked down since the beginning of the protest by Ikpoba hill youths have entered its fourth day with far reaching devastating consequences on motorists and Commuters. The hitherto busy road is now wearing a forlorn look with long vehicles littering precariously on both sides of the road starting from around first Bank area up to the bypass axis. This has necessitated the needless hardship faced by commuters as they have to trek long distances to get out of the troubled spot. Some of the distraught commuters who spoke with the Champion Newspaper correspondent said that they trekked all the way from the bypass axis of the road to first Bank area to be able to get a bus to Ramat park. According to one of the respondent who chosed to remain anonymous said she trekked all the way from 2 sisters to First Upstairs. " I trekked all the way from 2 sisters to First Upstair

Fr. Obiyan Admonishes Edo Citizens To Keep Hope Alive In Any Situation

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Edo people have been admonished to keep faith alive in whatever situations they find themselves as God has His own plan to send a helper where it is least expected to come from. Fr Andrew Obiyan gave the admonition in a prayer section organized by Christian Market Fellowship, Edo State Chapter for traders and marketers of Butcher Street in Benin City, Edo State. The God's servant used Joseph as an example saying, Joseph was sold into slavery because God wanted to use him to help his people, adding that the families and other persons tried to help him but he was the helper chosen by God to help his people. He subsequently said there are dimensions that one can not reach in one's family but needs a helper to get to that aspired position no matter the status of such a person, and God can send somebody who will reason differently from the way others are seeing it to be helper of such person. The St. Francis Catholic Church Parish Priest urged the traders and those who h

Edo 2024:Engr Morrison Ogbewi Eghobamien To Address Critical Issues To Make Edo Great

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Morrison Ogbewi Eghobamien firmly believes that addressing the critical issue affecting the state is the only sure way the people will feel the dividend of democracy.  Governance is about the people, providing the necessary infrastructures like good roads, functional health system, good educational system/skills acquisition, agriculture (food security), security, and all the infrastructure that will make the state work once again for the benefit of the good people of Edo State. The recognition that reliable electricity is a fundamental enabler for economic growth and job creation is a testament to his foresight. Edo State has grappled with inadequate power generation, infrastructure deficiencies, vandalism, and high tariffs like many regions.  In a chat with journalists, Engr Morrison Ogbewi Eghobamien gave more insight on what to expect to put a smile once more on the faces of the people of Edo State, placing more emphasis on electricity, which he says will drive the econo

Edo 2024: Dr Dorry Okojie, Inspiring Example Of Consensus Oriented Leadership

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Dorry Okojie exemplifies an inspiring example of a consensus-oriented leader. His unwavering commitment to social justice, empowering individuals, institutions and communities and advocating for social change reflects his genuine belief in the power of collective decision-making.   He has successfully created an environment that values every individual's voice and works towards a common objective.  Dorry okojie's consensus-oriented leadership style offers a pathway to foster unity, collaboration, and ultimately, prosperity. Dorry promises inclusivity in governance that engenders shared vision and collective buy-in and this translates to overall f socio economic growth. This way, Edo people would be consulted and carried along every step of the way and consequently be involved in governance of the state and ultimately state projects and programs become the peoples projects. Let us therefore nominate and support Dr Dorry For Edo 2024 Governorship election Powered B

Edeko pays health premium for elderly, widows, others in Edo community

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As part of effort to ensure the well being of the people of Uromi/Uzea community in Esan North-East Local Government Area, the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. (Mrs) Maria Omozele Oligbi-Edeko has paid insurance premium for the Persons leaving with Disabilities, Elderly, widows & other vulnerable persons to access free healthcare to access free healthcare under the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme. This demonstration of a people centric governance by the deputy Speaker would enable the beneficiaries access free primary healthcare in government hospitals in Uromi and environs. Flagging off the free healthcare in Uromi, Edeko said she has paid the insurance premium fee for all beneficiaries to access free medical services for one year. Edeko said" I have brought the Edo state health insurance scheme to my people because I know that governance means doing the things that are basic and very important to the people like healthcare, education

Benin- Agbor Road Blockage Takes Its Toll On Commutters

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From Chris Tony Akhabue The deplorable condition of the Benin- Agbor road in Ikpoba Okha local government area of Edo state which drew the ire of Ikpoba Hill Youths to block the road starting from yesterday the 25th enters the second day today with devastating consequences on motorists and Commuters who have resorted to trekking long distances. Recall that the Benin -Agbor road which has been in deplorable condition since last year has made life unbearable for commuters and residents of the area. The barricades mounted in strategic axis of the road starting from First upstairs along the Benin -Agbor road, and at Benin Depot Fence, one at Depot Bus Stop, One at Christ Chosen Church Of God, and another at Winners Chapel. Several others before the bypass have completely condoned off the already deplorable situation of the road. Thousands of stranded motorists could be seen trekking long distances with the aim of getting out of the Ikpoba Hill axis of the road on foot. Sp

Dorry Okojie, A Passion To Excel In Governance.

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In a democracy, the assurance of good governance does not derive its efficacy from soapbox rhetorics and promises that are bereft of clarity of focus. Leaders who are committed to doing the right things to give the people a new lease of life are rare to find. Such leaders are driven by a passion for excellence in everything they set out to do. Happily, the sun is rising and emerging from it is Dorry Okojie, who is on a mission to reset Edo with new ideas that would open a new chapter of fulfilled hopes and pubic expectations.  Dorry's motivation for politics derives from a desire to conduct public affairs and transparently manage public resources, free from abuse and corruption, for the maximization of public welfare and happiness of all In driving his promises , he will build a strong reputation of visibility in transparency and accountability and excellence. His PEOPLE FIRST mantra-- a sacred political creed, underscores his desire to build broad based consensus from

Dorry Okojie, A Passion To Excel In Governance.

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In a democracy, the assurance of good governance does not derive its efficacy from soapbox rhetorics and promises that are bereft of clarity of focus. Leaders who are committed to doing the right things to give the people a new lease of life are rare to find. Such leaders are driven by a passion for excellence in everything they set out to do. Happily, the sun is rising and emerging from it is Dorry Okojie, who is on a mission to reset Edo with new ideas that would open a new chapter of fulfilled hopes and pubic expectations.  Dorry's motivation for politics derives from a desire to conduct public affairs and transparently manage public resources, free from abuse and corruption, for the maximization of public welfare and happiness of all In driving his promises , he will build a strong reputation of visibility in transparency and accountability and excellence. His PEOPLE FIRST mantra-- a sacred political creed, underscores his desire to build broad based consensus from

EDO 2024: Omokhodion Has What it Takes To Unite Edo

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As Edo people search for a Governor ahead the 2024 governorship election, it has become imperative that the search be skewed towards the direction of equity and the individual who can unite Edo people.  It is trite that there can be no Edo State without Esanland  and this goes to restate our deep sense of homogeneity borne out of our historical past and contemporary brotherliness.  We hold our existence to a common ancestry  and no wind or ideological hurricane  can divide us.  Our progress is predicated on the collective engagements of all segments from the three Senatorial districts.   Thus, no race, people,  districts  or tribes should  be marginalised in this commonwealth  of advancement.  Equity and justice must, and should prevail in the choice of the next Governor from Edo Central  and the tripod of growth will be upheld. This is where the name of Rt. Hon. Bright Omokhodion comes to mind as the state needs an Edo Governor of Esan extraction with an Edo centric bias.
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Benin City Agog As Fr. Obinyan Marks 25th Priestly Ordination Anniversary BENIN CITY- It was a celebration galore as colleagues, family members, friends and well-wishers gathered at St. Francis Catholic Church on College Road, Benin City, Edo State to mark the 25th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of Very Rev Fr. Andrew Aigbe Obinyan, the Parish Priest of the church. The Special Thanksgiving Mass was held yesterday, Sunday 22nd October, 2023. The Mass, attended by dignitaries from within and outside the country, including Edo State Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, representative of the Esama of Benin, Sir, Chief, Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, Vice Chancellors of various universities in the country and family members led by the mother, Theresa Obinyan witnessed the unveiling of a book titled: "The Mystical Potency of Blessings and Curses - Reawakening the Human Consciences", authored by the celebrant Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Obinyan. In

Dorry Okojie, A Passion To Excel In Governance.

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In a democracy, the assurance of good governance does not derive its efficacy from soapbox rhetorics and promises that are bereft of clarity of focus. Leaders who are committed to doing the right things to give the people a new lease of life are rare to find. Such leaders are driven by a passion for excellence in everything they set out to do. Happily, the sun is rising and emerging from it is Dorry Okojie, who is on a mission to reset Edo with new ideas that would open a new chapter of fulfilled hopes and pubic expectations.  Dorry's motivation for politics derives from a desire to conduct public affairs and transparently manage public resources, free from abuse and corruption, for the maximization of public welfare and happiness of all In driving his promises , he will build a strong reputation of visibility in transparency and accountability and excellence. His PEOPLE FIRST mantra-- a sacred political creed, underscores his desire to build broad based consensus from

Ossiomo Power Outage: Non Supply Of Gas Grounded Govt Facilities In Edo

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Activities in government offices, health facilities and other areas have been grounded for days now in Benin City, Edo State as a result of no availability of power. Investigations showed that the power outage was as a result of the non-supply of gas to the Ossiomo Power Company which has been supplying electricity to government buildings, street lights, some private homes, courts, the Edo State Industrial Hub where several micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) operate including the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) where journalists send their reports to their respective offices. Some of the operators in the Industrial Hub lamented their plight to journalists as they said they have lost fortune because of no power supply which entered its fourth day on Friday. It was gathered that surgeries have been stopped at the Edo state government owned health facilities like primary health centres in the state capital, the Edo State Specialist Hospital

Edeko Congratulates Oba of Benin on 7th coronation anniversary

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The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon (Mrs) Maria Omozele Oligbi-Edeko has felicitated His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo Uku Akporlokpolor, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin on the occasion of the 7th anniversary of his ascension to the throne of the ancient Benin kingdom. In a statement personally signed by the Deputy Speaker, she also rejoiced with the monarch on the special occasion of his Majesty's royal birth. Edeko, while wishing the Benin Monarch many more years and anniversaries on the throne, she also extended good wishes to chiefs and people of the state on the special occasion. She said: “I heartily extend my congratulations to His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, on the occasion of the 7th anniversary of your ascension to the throne of your forebears. “I also convey my felicitations to Your Majesty on the anniversary of your royal birth

Fr. Obinyan 25th Priestly Ordination Gold Cup Competition

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From Chris Tony Akhabue It was a highly competitive two-week football match tournament in Oredo local government area of Edo State as youths with different clubs engaged each other to contest for Rev. Fr. Obinyan 25th Priestly Ordination Gold Cup Competition. The tournament is to mark the 25th Priestly Ordination of a great Esan born catholic priest, Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Obinyan, a native of Ubiaja in Esan South-East local government area in Edo State. About 20 different clubs participated in the tournament which later saw Dynamic Football Club, Uzebu All Stars FC, Ogbe FC and Marakana FC participating at the Semi Final Stage. During the semi-final encounter, Dynamic Football Club defeated Ogbe FC with 2 goals to 1 while Uzebu All Stars Football Club defeated Marakana Football Club with 3 goals to 2 to book their place in the grand finale. The grand finale of the Rev. Fr. Obinyan 25th Priestly Ordination Gold Cup Competition which took place yesterday, 20th day of October,

Dr. Christopher Ebuetse Urged National Assembly, Others To Declare October 25th Day Of Broadcasting In Honour Of Dokpesi

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Dr. Christopher Ebuetse, the  Director General, Raymond Dokpesi Center for Media Development has said that the Raymond Dokpesi Center for Media Development will hold its 16th annual Raymond Dokpesi Endurance on October 25, 2023. This was contained in a statement issued signed and made available to the Press yesterday. According to the statement, "the Endurance Trek is an annual event; it is one of the activities of the Center, usually done to herald the yearly Raymond Dokpesi annual lectures. In the past 16 years, it has taken place in various areas of Lagos State, such as participants trekking from police college to FRCN training school, from GRA Ikeja to Maryland, from Kollington bus stop in Alagbado to Daar Communications Plc’s compound in Alagbado, Lagos, and in Benin City, from Dawson Road to the museum center on Ring Road. "The Raymond Dokpesi Center for Media Development was founded in 2007 to promote the ideals of the founder of Daar Communications Plc. H

Fr Obiyan Felicitates With Oba Of Benin

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A frontline aspirant in the Edo 2024 Governorship election, Very Rev Father Andrew Obiyan has said that the unwavering dedication to preserving the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Benin Kingdom by His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II has rekindled a sense of pride and identity among his subjects. This was contained in a press statement signed by Very Rev Fr. Obiyan on the occasion of the 7th years Coronation Anniversary and Birthday celebration of Oba Ewuare II, and made available to the newsmen earlier today in Benin city the Edo state capital. According to him, "Your Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, on this auspicious double celebration of your birthday and 7th Coronation Anniversary of your ascension to the throne of your forefathers. I extend my sincere felicitations to you on behalf of Fr. Obiyan Movement (FrOM) and the good people of Edo State.  "Your reign as the Oba of Benin Kingdom has been nothing short of rem

Edo2024:Dorry Okojie, A Passion To Serve

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Leaders, especially those who emerge through free and fair democratic processes, face unique challenges, one of which is not to betray the trust invested in them by the people. Over the years, we have witnessed how betrayed promises and squandered hopes, continue to be in fierce competition. The consequence of this is that the people's confidence in our leaders have substantially waned. However, things are about to change in Edo State with the coming into the political space of Dorry Okojie-- a man for whom service to the people is a very strong and incontestable motivation for seeking power.  Driven by a passion to serve, he is coming with a vision of giving hope to the despondent through investment in critical infrastructures that would attract investments and make Edo a model for other states to emulate. He is young and energetic His ideas are fresh. He has the vigour of mind He has the intellectual grit. His humility is infectious. He possesses the skills of creat

Azemhe Azena Salutes Oba Of Benin

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A frontline governorship aspirant on the platform of the Labour party, Dr. Azemhe Azena salutes the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo Uku Akporlokpolor, Ewuare II, on his birthday and his 7th coronation anniversary. Dr. Azemhe Azena described the Benin monarch as a reference point in the traditional institution in Nigeria, in view of his fatherly roles, wise counsels, administrative, and humanitarian dispositions The educationist in his congratulatory message said the Oba of Benin since his ascension to the throne of his forefathers has continued to promote peace, stability, and progress in Edo state and indeed in Nigeria. The entreprenur prayed the good Lord and the ancestors to grant the Benin Monarch many more years of fruitful reign on the exalted throne in good health, vitality, wisdom and strength to contribute more to the advancement and development of the society.