The ancient Holy Arousa Church in Benin, the Edo State capital, was agog yesterday for the monarch of the ancient city, Oba Ewuare II, as it hosted the thanksgiving service marking his 10th coronation anniversary celebration.

Oba Ewuare II was accompanied by a huge crowd who trekked alongside his convoy to the church.

The Benin monarch is the General Overseer of the church, which was built in the 15th century by the Portuguese and remains the only church where he worships God.

In commemoration of the anniversary, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed the Benin monarch for preserving the cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom, particularly his commitment to the repatriation of stolen Benin artefacts and the protection of one of Africa’s oldest traditional institutions.

President Tinubu made the remarks in a personal tribute to celebrate the revered monarch’s 10th coronation anniversary and 73rd birthday, both commemorated on the same day.

In the tribute, the President congratulated Ewuare II on behalf of his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Federal Government, praising the monarch’s contributions to cultural preservation, communal harmony and the advancement of traditional institutions.

“On behalf of my wife and the Federal Government, I heartily congratulate His Royal Majesty, Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, CFR, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, on his 10th anniversary on the throne of his forefathers and his 73rd birthday on October 20,” the President stated.

President Tinubu described the double celebration as an important milestone in the history of the Benin monarchy, noting that the royal father’s stewardship had strengthened the dignity of the throne and reinforced the cultural identity of his people.

“I celebrate His Royal Majesty, an embodiment of enduring dignity, culture, and a historical consciousness that reflects his people and, indeed, Nigerians.

“Your Majesty, this is no ordinary milestone. It is a celebration of ten years of royal stewardship, service, and an unwavering commitment to preserving the heritage and traditions that define the Benin people,” he said.

According to him, the monarch’s leadership has been distinguished by wisdom, courage, restraint and a commitment to peace, qualities he said have continued to inspire confidence among the people.

“For a decade, you have continued to demonstrate your leadership by sustaining the dignity of the Royal institution and inspiring confidence.

“I have watched with keen admiration the wisdom, courage, restraint, and an abiding sense of peace that have underscored your years on the throne. You have remained a symbol of grace and integrity, a fountain of wisdom, a guardian of communal values, and a rallying point for the people’s aspirations,” President Tinubu stated.

The President also acknowledged the monarch’s efforts towards securing the return of Benin’s stolen cultural treasures, describing his campaign for the repatriation of the artefacts as an important contribution to the preservation of Nigeria’s historical and cultural identity.

“I commend your efforts to repatriate the stolen Benin artefacts and your role as a remarkable custodian of one of Africa’s most enduring monarchies,” he said.

President Tinubu prayed for renewed strength, good health and greater wisdom for Oba Ewuare II.

“As Your Majesty celebrates another year of life, may this birthday usher in renewed strength, greater wisdom, sound health, and an even deeper inspiration for the young to cherish their heritage.

“May your reign witness greater successes in the cultural and social causes you have championed. Oba gha t’o kpere. Ise!” the President prayed.

For the thanksgiving service, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo was among the dignitaries who joined the monarch’s convoy to the church on Akpakpava Road.

Besides the huge crowd, several traditional praise singers sang melodious songs with rhythmic drums.

There was a traffic jam on Akpakpava Road as traders and other residents trooped out to catch a glimpse of the Oba’s convoy.

High-ranking chiefs and prominent men wore traditional red and white attire.

Priest of the Holy Arousa, Chief Igbinoghodua Edebiri, preached in the Edo language and called for unity among the brethren.

Oba Ewuare II led his wives to the altar for thanksgiving.

The Edo State Commissioner for Mining, Kayode Iriabekhai, said government officials were at the worship centre to celebrate a traditional ruler whose reign brought peace to the Benin Kingdom and across the state.

Iriabekhai thanked the Oba for supporting Governor Okpebholo since he assumed office. (The Nation)