The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has refuted claims made by Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in Edo State, that he is a “son of the palace.”
During a campaign tour to the Oba’s palace, Akpata referred to himself as a “son of the palace” while praising the king and expressing the Labour Party’s ambitions for the state.
Oba Ewuare II quickly clarified that while Akpata is indeed a respected native of Benin, it would be incorrect to call himself a “son of the palace.”
“When I heard him say he is the son of the palace, I had to consult to see if any of my sons are now involved in politics. I acknowledge him as a well-known son of the soil in Benin.
“In fact, when he was to become the Nigerian Bar Association President, I contacted (Nasir) El-Rufai to inform him that this is our son, a true son of Benin soil.”
The monarch emphasized the need to clear up any misunderstandings for the media and those present.
“The fourth estate of the realm is here and others, so I need to clarify this,” the Oba said.
In response, Akpata apologized for his statement, explaining that he equated all of Benin to the palace and asked for the king’s forgiveness.
The Edo State governorship election is scheduled for September 21, 2024.
