Oba of Benin wades into Edo House crisis, sues for peace

The Oba of Benin, Omo n'Oba Erediauwa, has urged all the actors in the crisis rocking Edo State House of Assembly to allow peace to reign.

A statement issued by the palace and personally signed by His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin said: 'I thank leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic party (PDP) for honouring my invitation at short notice.

'I invited you to my palace to appeal to you on the need to allow peace continue to reign in Edo State, I  know youo as politicians have a way of resolving political issues, no matter how delicate and sensitive the issues are. 'Politicians in Edo State, regardless of whichever political parties they belong to, I am quite sure, will do all they can to ensure that our great state especially Benin City,   the capital, is not made ungovernable for political reasons. I know as citizens of Edo State, you will always do all you can to protect our people and our land..

'On this very note, taking into consideration what has been happening since the beginning of this week, I am appealing to you not to engage in the destruction of lives and properties for whatever reasons. I also appeal to you as you leave here to have the interest of Edo State at heart and amicably resolve whatever political disagreement you may have, which I am sure, you are well capable of resolving for peace and security to reign.  I thank you for coming and God bless you all.'

Representing the APC at the meeting were Dr Pius Odubu, Deputy Governor of Edo State and Hon Patrick Obahiagbon, Chief of Staff to the Governor.

Chief Dan Orbih, PDP Chairman, Mr Lucky Imasuen, one-time Deputy Governor, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu and Hon Festus Ebea, suspended Speaker of the State House of Assembly represented the PDP.