The Enigie (dukes) and Ohen (chief priests) of various deities loyal to the Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II, have endorsed the All Progressives Congress candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, and his running mate, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, for the September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo state.
This endorsement was made during a dialogue between Edo South APC leaders and Benin Palace functionaries in Benin City on Sunday.
According to a press statement by the Director of Publicity, APC Edo Governorship Campaign Council, Comrade Orobosa Omo-Ojo JP, the Enogie of Iguogie Dukedom in Ovia North East Local Government Area, His Royal Highness Festus Osagiede, led the Enigie in this decision.
“I am the coordinator of Enigie in Edo South, we are saying fervently, that we are solidly behind the APC,” Enogie Osagiede stated.
“We are children of Oba of Benin, we do not disobey the palace. Obaseki (Governor Godwin Obaseki) used some Enigie to attack the palace, but they are not here. We will not allow anyone to ridicule the palace.”
Enogie Osagiede emphasized their loyalty to the Benin Palace and the king, saying, “We are aware that the governor has enormous power and immunity, but we believe that Obaseki’s immunity is irrelevant compared to that of our father, Oba Ewuare.”
He continued, “As a result, we would not allow Benin to suffer; therefore, we on the side of Oba have all decided to support anyone that will assist Oba to develop Edo.”
Enogie Osagiede also expressed confidence in Sen. Okpebholo’s ability to fight for the interests of Benin, referencing the legendary strength of ‘Akpakomiza’.
“Now ‘Akpakomiza’ is back, he will fight this battle for us! Oba ghato Okpere,” he added.
