TELL Magazine

The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, on Friday, sued for global peace, and prayed against the escalation of the war between Ukraine and Russia, especially amidst deep and growing frustration, seven months after the war began.

Speaking in his palace in Benin-City, Edo State, when he received the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Hidayet Bayraktar, Oba Ewuare 11stated that he had been praying to God and his ancestors to abate the conflict and ease the pains of the ebbs and flows like tides against global security.

He particularly commended the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for creating a corridor for humanitarian aid services.

The Benin monarch, who expressed optimism that the war would abate, called for an end to the conflict in the interest of peace, amidst uncertainty, solidarity, and hope.

According to him, “We are praying that Russia and Ukraine conflict come to an end as quickly as possible for the sake of peace and development of the world. We pray that it doesn’t escalate.

“We are also aware of the role your President played between Ukraine and the Russian State…. You sent much needed grains to Africa, and we say on behalf of Nigerian people and Africans, thank you”.

Addressing the Benin throne, the Turkish Ambassador, who said he was on a fact-finding mission to Edo State, said the purpose was to explore economic opportunities between both countries.

“Part of the reasons why we came today is on a fact-finding mission to visit the states in Nigeria …It was a very complex and fruitful meeting. I hope to be here next time”, he said.

Iguobaro Osaigbovo
Chief Press Secretary to Oba of Benin
23rd September, 2022.