The Enogie (Duke) of Obazuwa-Iko and pioneer Editor-in-Chief of The Nigerian Observer Newspapers, Prince Edun Akenzua, on Wednesday called on the Edo State Government to use the occasion of the 30th creation anniversary of the state to honour the founding fathers of the state and those who spent and resources to see to the creation of the state in 1991 from the then Bendel State.
Among those listed for such recognition by the Duke were Oba Erediauwa, the then Oba of Benin, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, and the former Senate President, Dr Joseph Wayas, whom he said all worked for the successful creation of Edo State.
Addressing journalists in Benin City, ahead of the 30th-anniversary celebration of the creation of the state, went down the memory lane of how, some 35 years ago, Oba Erediauwa inaugurated the Edo State Movement, following the agitation for the creation of states by ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, adding that in the then Bendel State, Aniocha, Anioma and Delta, each demanded for their respective states.
Such demands, Akenzua stated did not bother Oba Erediauwa, but their desires to always annexe parts of Edo State, adding that in a bid to check that, Oba Erediauwa invited 11 traditional rulers and 35 prominent Edo sons and constituted them into steering committee with the Oba acting as the Chairman while Elder Odion Ugbesia acted as Secretary.
The Enogie pointed out that it had become imperative for the Edo people to know those who fought tirelessly to achieve the present Edo State as the state celebrates its 30 years anniversary, saying such could only be done through proper recognition.
Prince Akenzua singled out Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, whom he said singlehandedly paid the sum of N50,000 for the launch of the Edo State Movement, which later led to the creation of Edo State.
“It is necessary to tell this story in full because most Edo people and Nigerians do not know the genesis of the formation of Edo State. Those in authority now, may wish to honour the founding fathers of the state whose 30th anniversary is coming up on August 27th 2021”, the Benin prince submitted.
“If that is to be so, it is hoped that Dr Joseph Wayas who was the Senate President at that time and who played a significant role in the creation of the state will also be recognised as a founding father of the state”, he added.‎
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