The paramount leader of Edo Kingdom, Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has cautioned politicians who have interest in the September governorship elections not to turn the state into a war zone.

This came after the supporters of the two main opposition parties, the People’s Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress, clashed at his Palace last week.

The scene of the clash.

The clash left alot of people injured. It can be recalled that the incumbent, Governor Godwin Obaseki of the PDP, had led an entourage of party leaders from both the state and national levels, amongst other PDP governors, on courtesy visit to the Oba, when the said clash took place.

Governor Obaseki with the Oba, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II.

The Oba issued the statement of caution, through the Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council, Frank Irabor, reiterating his commitment to peace and non-partisanship, while frowning at the violent behaviour of the supporters.

The statement read: “The BTC wish to state that His Royal Majesty warmly welcomed the August visitors led by Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo.”

“The meeting was cordial. During the meeting, the Oba recalled the warm reception accorded him by Governor Nyesom Wike and Governor Aminu Tambuwal when he paid a Thank You visit to both states. The courtesy of the esteemed August visitors to the monarch ended very well.”

“We were therefore surprised to hear later that there was an incident outside the Palace, directly in front of Oredo Local Government Secretariat. His Royal Majesty condemns this unruly behaviour that occurred in front of the Palace.”

“We wish to emphasise once more that the Benin throne is not partisan. The BTC uses this medium to advise all political party members not to turn Edo State into a war zone because of gubernatorial ambition.”

“His Royal Majesty is committed to peace and tranquility in the state and, peaceful upcoming gubernatorial election.”