Diplomats, Monarchs, others grace coronation of Oba of Benin

Royal fathers, religious leaders, retired army generals and members of the Edo State Executive Council are among the early arrivals at Urhopkota, venue of the coronation of Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa as 39th Oba of Benin Kingdom.

The dignitaries started arriving Urhokpota as early as 8.00 a.m. amidst tight security within the Oba Ovoramwan Square.

The sitting positions have been made by the coronation planning committee with names of expected guests pinned to the specially designed chairs.

At the time of filling this report, President Muhammadu Buhari and members of the diplomatic corps, among other respected personalities, are still being expected.

Some of the early arrivals are Eze Ogbunechende of Ezema Olo, Chairman of Enugu Council, Charles Airhvbere, Parry Osayande, Augustine Obiora Akubese, the Catholic Archbishop of Benin City, among others.

Also, members of the Diplomatic Corps are among dignitaries already seated at the coronation venue of Mr. Erediauwa as the 39th Oba of Benin Kingdom.

A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria reports that some of countries whose diplomats are present include Great Britain, Namibia, Senegal, Italy, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Mauritania, Mali and Spain.

Others are Denmark, Sweden, Tanzania, Sao Tome, South Sudan, Argentina, Botswana, Angola and Albania.

The Crown Prince is expected to walk from the Usama Palace few kilometres to Urhokpota, where he will be crowned by the Ezama Chiefs led by Oliha.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole is expected to present him with staff of office after which the Oba will unveil the new crest before the public.

(NAN)