The Itsekiri Community in Benin has extended its heartfelt condolences to His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, and the entire Benin Kingdom, following the burial of the Queen Mother, Iyoba Omo N’Ikuoyemwen Iyoba Ewuare II.
This was contained in a condolence message signed by Chief J.T.Y. Pessu (JP), the Ojomo of Warri Kingdom and Chairman of the Itsekiri Community ; and by its Secretary, Aboyowa Okotie.
The Community expressed its deep sorrow and solidarity with the Oba and the people of Benin during this period of mourning.
“We wholeheartedly identify with Your Royal Majesty and the entire Benin Kingdom in this period of mourning to commemorate the Queen Mother’s transition to the realm of ancestors,” the statement read.
The community acknowledged the indelible mark left by the late Iyoba Ewuare II, emphasizing her “exalted, unique and distinct honour and status” in the history of the Great Benin Kingdom.
“The pain of her demise can never be erased completely, ‘but she occupies an exalted, unique and distinct honour and status as the Iyoba Ewuare II in the annals of the Great Benin Kingdom”, the statement further read.
The Itsekiri Community also offered prayers for the Oba and the Royal Family, seeking divine guidance, wisdom, and strength for a long and historic reign.
Besides, it expressed hope that the spirit of the Queen Mother, in harmony with the ancestors, would provide continued support to the Oba.
The statement, however concluded with the traditional Benin royal greeting, “Oba gha to kpe re! Isee!”