By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
For many who have read the statement of Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, he may be passing a coded message against the exclusion of Godwin Obaseki from contesting the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary in Edo State.
The Oba’s statement came at a time when the sitting governor was disqualified from the APC primary election, and his rival, Ize-Iyamu was adopted as the consensus candidate by the Adams Oshiomhole group.
The Oba of Benin’s statement on Thursday, June 19, was categorical against a rumour that he had anointed a candidate, and his rejection of consensus candidate. “The palace totally denounces this evil speculation and condemns those that originated it,” the statement read.
On consensus candidate, he said: “The Omo N’Oba strongly advises that in order to eschew recurrent socio political conflict that seems to constantly ravish the state, making Edo people a laughing stock to the rest of the country on how politicians manage the affairs of Edo people, our Edo political actors must eradicate the twin evil political vices of Godfatherism and consensus candidate.
“These two practices seem antithetical to the very fundamental basis of democracy. In other words this business of coercing aspirants to step down for another candidate for whatsoever reason is undemocratic It will not augur well for the development of democratic process in Nigeria.
“As the various political parties go about the process of selecting their candidates through their respective party primaries, we urge all to exercise the highest standards of maturity and sportsmanship, as the desire to bring about the best for the people of Edo State cannot be compromised nor sacrificed on the altar of intolerance, rumour mongering and fake news.
“Rumour mongers are reminded that there is an ancestral curse on anyone who attempts to tarnish the image of the Oba of Benin and the ancient throne of Benin Kingdom, which will normally be for their selfish ends,” he said.
