BIBI Congratulates Oba Ewuare II On 10th Coronation Anniversary
Hon. Sunny Aguebor, popularly known as BIBI, has congratulated the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku’Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, CFR, on the 10th anniversary of his coronation and ascension to the throne of the Benin Kingdom.
Aguebor, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Edo South Senatorial District, described the milestone as a significant moment for the Benin Kingdom, Edo State and the preservation of the cultural heritage of the Edo people.
Oba Ewuare II ascended the throne as the 40th Oba of Benin on October 20, 2016. The Royal Court has scheduled a series of cultural, historical, sporting and commemorative activities to mark the 10th anniversary between October and November 2026.
In his congratulatory message, Aguebor commended the monarch for what he described as his commitment to the preservation and promotion of Benin culture, tradition and heritage over the past decade.
He also acknowledged the Oba’s role in efforts to secure the return of Benin artefacts taken from the kingdom, noting that the repatriation of cultural treasures has remained an important part of the monarch’s engagement with international institutions.
The Royal Court says the Oba’s decade-long reign has included sustained efforts toward the repatriation of looted Benin artefacts, cultural preservation, social justice initiatives and international diplomacy. It also noted the return of 119 pieces from the Netherlands in June 2025.
Aguebor further praised the Oba for promoting peace, unity and cultural consciousness among the people, describing the traditional institution as an important pillar of Edo identity and heritage.
He prayed for continued wisdom, strength and good health for the monarch as he leads the ancient Benin Kingdom into another decade.
The NDC candidate also called on the people of Edo State and Benin Kingdom to celebrate the historic anniversary with pride while continuing to uphold the values, traditions and cultural heritage handed down through generations.
He wished Oba Ewuare II many more years on the throne and expressed hope that the monarch's reign would continue to be marked by peace, unity, cultural renaissance and greater recognition of Benin heritage around the world.
