Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has praised the role of the traditional institution in the sustenance of Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking at the 15th Ewohimi Day Celebration, weekend, the governor said government will continue to show respect to the traditional institutions.
According to him: “Traditional rulers are the foundation on which Nigeria’s democracy rests.
“Whenever there are challenges, when communities are fighting, when there is unrest by ordinary people, government at all levels, from president to governors have time and again called on traditional rulers to prevail on the people to help in the maintenance of law and order.
“If they must play those roles, then they are entitled to benefits exactly the same way that governors and ministers do….
“I will respect traditional rulers, will consult with them and I will carry them along in all that we do.
“We cannot go wrong when we connect with rulers at the grassroots level.”
Oshiomhole argued that “a nation must celebrate based on the quality of life of the ordinary man.
“Nobody understands the ordinary man more than the traditional ruler who lives with them.”
The Governor re-affirmed: “I want to assure you, your Highness that we have no alternative. By the special grace of God, we will continue to deliver to the people of Esanland.”
Earlier the Onogie of Ewohimi, HRH, Lord Peter Ogienefoh Usifoh II, commended the governor for his developmental strides in the slate
He said: “Words may not be enough to express our gratitude to you. The Ewohimi-Agadagu-Igueben Road is a beauty and a wonder to behold.”