- Oba Ewaure II clarified that Barrister Olumide Akpata is not a son of the palace but an industrious son of Benin
- Akpata sought royal blessings for the Labour Party’s campaign, admitting his mistake in equating the entire Benin to the palace
The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewaure II, has clarified that Labour Party governorship candidate Barrister Olumide Akpata is not a palace son but a dynamic son of the Benin Kingdom. This statement was made when Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, brought Akpata to the palace for royal blessings.
“There are some who call themselves children of the palace, and others distantly related who may not be exactly from the royal home but can also use that title. When Akpata said he is a palace child, I asked my chiefs to verify, and I don’t know about him,” the Oba stated.
He explained that this clarification was necessary for the public. “We know him well; he is a diligent son of the soil. He is a true Indigenous son of the soil, but to call him a child of the palace, I don’t know if any of them are politicians,” the Oba continued.
“Sorry, I hope you don’t mind that clarification. You are a dynamic and indigenous son of the soil. It is just to be clear, not that we are against you. I want to clarify your identification. I hope you don’t mind,” he added.
In response, Akpata admitted his mistake in equating the entire Benin to the palace. “I am a true son of the Benin Kingdom, and I hope Your Majesty will forgive me,” he said.
Akpata further stated that he was at the palace to seek blessings as the Labour Party began its September 21 governorship election campaign. “I am here to report to Your Majesty that the Labour Party in Edo State is strong and vibrant. We will go around the 18 local governments and 192 wards to pass our message to the people,” he said.