Oba Ewuare II appeals for peace and unity.
The meeting took place in the heart of the Benin royal compound, where centuries-old ivory carvings and brass plaques line the walls. These relics remind visitors of the kingdom’s storied past and the enduring cultural role of the Oba. Oba Ewuare II, seated under a richly embroidered canopy, spoke from the same throne once occupied by his ancestors, underscoring the gravity of his plea .
Since its 13th-century founding, the Benin monarchy has been central to west-African diplomacy and cultural exchange. The Oba serves not only as a spiritual leader for Edo people but also as a mediator in regional disputes. Over decades, Oba Ewuare II has engaged with federal and state officials to promote dialogue, from championing artifact repatriation to hosting interfaith gatherings in Benin City .
Oba Ewuare II first voiced support for President Tinubu in November 2023, urging all Nigerians to back the administration and live in peace during a visit with Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu . In June 2024, he appealed to youths to shelve protests and give the government time to ease hardship, stressing that “for things to get better, it has to be rough for a while” . More recently, in January 2025, he welcomed Pan-Niger Delta Forum leaders, pledging cooperation for regional unity . Each statement has reinforced his role as a bridge between traditional authority and modern governance.
Nigeria faces mounting security threats—from insurgency in the North-East to communal clashes in the Middle Belt and economic headwinds as global oil prices wobble. In such times, a unified leadership front is critical to sustaining confidence among citizens and investors. When governors publicly back federal initiatives, they help accelerate infrastructure projects and reassure foreign partners .
Recent flare-ups in Plateau and Kaduna states have heightened fears of wider unrest. By urging governors to promote unity “beyond tribe and faith,” the Oba aims to prevent local disputes from escalating into national crises. His palace, as a neutral cultural hub, can lend moral authority to such appeals.
Key Points from Oba Ewuare II’s Address
1. Unconditional Support: Every governor should extend warm regards to President Tinubu and publicly back his policies.
2. Peace First: Leaders must discourage hate speech and divisive rhetoric within their states.
3. Joint Initiatives: Governors should coordinate inter-state dialogues, community peace committees, and shared development forums.
4. Cultural Outreach: Traditional festivals and cultural exchanges can foster cross-regional understanding.
He stressed that these steps would reinforce trust in government and help deliver tangible benefits—roads, schools, and healthcare to all Nigerians .
The gathering included APC-led states under the Progressive Governors’ Forum:
Hope Uzodimma (Imo State) – Forum Chair
Godwin Obaseki (Edo State) – Vice Chair
Abubakar Badaru (Jigawa State)
Abubakar Atiku Bagudu (Kebbi State)
Monday Okpebholo (Edo State)
Others from a total of 14 APC-ruled states.
After the Oba’s remarks, Forum Chair Hope Uzodimma pledged to relay the monarch’s message to fellow governors. Edo State’s Monday Okpebholo described the call as timely and vowed to hold interfaith councils in Benin, Asaba, and other capitals in a show of solidarity .
Since taking office in May 2023, President Tinubu has pushed for electoral amendments to ensure fair contests, drawing on the Independent National Electoral Commission’s proposals. He has also expanded the National Social Investment Program to reach more vulnerable Nigerians and spearheaded road, rail, and power infrastructure efforts .
Governor endorsements can help pass key bills in the National Assembly and demonstrate a united front to international partners. It counters criticisms that the administration favors certain regions over others and emphasizes that prosperity depends on shared responsibility .
Dr. Aisha Odeh, University of Lagos: “A respected royal voice can calm tensions faster than political speeches. This appeal could reset state-federal relations.”
Chukwuma Okeke, Abuja policy analyst: “If governors follow through, we may see smoother budget approvals and faster project execution.”
Both experts warn that words must translate into action—joint security patrols, budget co-funding, and public letter sign-ons will be needed to prove the unity is real.
Community leaders in Benin City welcome the call. Mrs. Grace Okojie, a market association head, said, “We look to our Oba for guidance. If governors heed him, markets and roads will get fair attention.”
Peace-building NGOs urge governors to back the Oba by funding local mediation centers and sponsoring inter-communal sports festivals. They stress that youth engagement is vital to sustaining peace.
To honor the Oba’s appeal, governors can:
1. Issue Joint Declarations: A public statement across state media endorsing Tinubu’s major policies.
2. Launch Interfaith Summits: Host monthly meetings with religious and ethnic leaders.
3. Coordinate Development Tours: Send cross-state delegations to inspect neighboring state projects.
4. Establish State Liaison Offices: Each governor appoints an envoy to the Federal Ministry of Peacebuilding.
These steps demonstrate unity and build public confidence in cooperative governance.
Oba Ewuare II highlighted cultural festivals as a tool for unity. Edo’s Igun Street Festival and Imo’s New Yam Festival can host out-of-state guests, fostering inter-regional bonds. Traditional rulers in Oyo and Ife are invited to participate, reinforcing pan-Nigeria cultural ties .
Challenges Ahead
Political Rivalries: Governors from opposition parties may resist aligning publicly.
Resource Constraints: Joint initiatives require budget allocations states with tight finances may struggle.
Grassroots Skepticism: Citizens weary of political rhetoric may demand visible results.
Overcoming these will test leaders’ commitment to the Oba’s vision.
Oba Ewuare II’s call on June 28, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s push for unity. By urging governors to back President Tinubu beyond political, religious, and ethnic lines, the monarch underscores the power of traditional authority in modern governance. The real test lies in turning royal counsel into collaborative action—only then will peace and unity flourish across the nation.