A group of elders in Edo State has strongly condemned the torrent of insults and abuses directed at His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, by supporters of the Labour Party and its gubernatorial candidate, Olumide Akpata.
The controversy arose after the Oba publicly clarified that Akpata has no birth relation to the Benin royal family. This declaration, aimed at correcting Akpata’s claim of being affiliated with the Palace as its “son,” sparked a backlash from some Labour Party supporters on social media.
The elders, operating under the Edo Socio-Cultural Advancement and Good Governance Initiative, expressed their shock and disappointment at what they described as “childish, unwarranted, and unacceptable behavior” from Labour Party supporters.
In a statement made available to reporters in Benin City, the coalition’s spokesperson, Comrade Melvin Irabor, defended the Oba’s right to set the record straight regarding Akpata’s lineage. “Our Oba was not out of place in correcting the erroneous remarks and insinuations by the Labour Party Candidate, Barr. Olumide Akpata, for claiming to be the ‘Son of the Palace’,” Irabor said.
The coalition highlighted the disrespectful nature of comments directed at the Oba on platforms like Sahara Reporters, Nairaland Forum, Twitter, and Facebook. Irabor pointed out particularly offensive remarks, including one from a user named Richard Wilson, who referred to the Oba as a “useless ruler,” and another from Evang. Paschal Chidiebere, who suggested the Oba would have been more welcoming if Akpata had come with a large sum of money.
Irabor emphasized the Oba of Benin’s role as a unifying figure and spokesperson for the kingdom’s gods, noting that the monarch must remain impartial and correct any candidate making false statements. “Every candidate contesting in this election has the support and blessings of our Oba. He is the father of all, and he wishes every one of them well,” Irabor stated.
The coalition urged Labour Party supporters to refrain from insulting the Oba, warning that such behavior disrespects the Palace. They called on all political parties to conduct their campaigns democratically and focus on substantive issues rather than personal attacks.
The incident underscores the tensions and sensitivities surrounding political affiliations and cultural respect in Edo State as the governorship election approaches. The elders’ statement serves as a reminder of the need for civility and respect in political discourse.
