Dr Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate for the Edo State September election has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, and the entire citizens of Edo State, on the repatriation of two very significant royal stools from Germany.

In a press statement released by Team Asue Media Organization (TAMO) and personally signed by Ighodalo, reads in full:

“I congratulate His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, and the entire citizens of Edo State on the historically significant return of two very treasured ancient royal stools from Germany back to the Palace where they were stolen from.

“The repatriation of this highly treasured royal stools back to their roots, signifies the restoration of our Edo cultural heritage as well as the acknowledgment of the Great Benin Kingdom in the artistic world.

“No doubt, this is a significant milestone, and I completely share the joy of the moment with the Palace and the generality of Edo State citizens in seeing these artefacts returned.

“This repatriation, hopefully, will mark the return of several others across Europe. It marks a new dawn in our history as artistic and cultural people, and a reflection of the legacies of our forebears who crafted all these artistic works of art.

“My prayer is that may this repatriation, which is inspired by the enduring and resilient spirits of our revered Oba and the Edo State people, influence the return of more artefacts across the globe through cultural diplomacy and collaborations.

“Once again, I congratulate the Palace on this very significant historical fulfilment.

Oba ghatór kpere ise!”

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