Gov Obaseki On First Visits To Oba Of Benin, Seeks Palace Support

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By; RALPH OKHIRIA, Benin.
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State on Monday paid his first official visit to the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II.
The governor called for support from the Benin royal father to have a more friendly land administrative system that would be investors friendly and in tune with his administration’s desire for more development for the state.
Besides, he said his administration would ensure a friendly environment to make Edo state one of the cleanest states in Nigeria.
On security, the governor disclosed that he would strengthen existing community policing structures like vigilance groups to share information with conventional security agencies like the police and DSS to have a safer society.
He added that in the next few weeks, he would unveil the plans to achieve his promise of creating 200,000 jobs for the people of the state.
“This Kingdom used to have the best land tenure system in Nigeria, unfortunately we have lost that pride today. We want to deal with the issue of land properly so that we can attract private investment to the state, we need your support to do this.”
Responding, Oba Ewuare II carpeted the activities of community development associations who have taken over sales of lands with very unfriendly conditions.
“May I use this opportunity to seek the state government’s support in eradicating the menace of Community Development Associations in Edo South in particular and Edo state in general. Most of their actions have impeded the development of our communities.
”For the avoidance of doubt, CDAs are not supposed to be involved in land matters. Community lands as in other matters of the community are under the Enigie, Odionwere or Owhien as the case may be.”
He however charged Obaseki to ensure that he fulfils his election promises to the people.
He said, “I have no doubt in my mind that you will deploy all your wealth of experience both in the private sector and in the immediate past administration of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole to effectively utilise the human and material resources in Edo state to take it to greater heights through good governance and provide the good people of Edo state the good dividends of democracy.
“May I use this opportunity to appreciate the state government and for its unprecedented support in the successful completion of my coronation ceremony and I pray the good relationship will continue to exist between the state government and the palace.
“Please, Your Excellency endeavour to deliver on your campaign promises and attract more federal support and presence particularly my initial appeal to the federal government to transform Gelegele into an Export Processing Zone for agro allied industries.”
The Benin Monarch further called on the state government to assist in setting up of cottage industries that would take the youth off the street in the seven local government areas that make up the Benin kingdom.
According to him, “The palace will partner with the state government on the establishment of cluster industries otherwise known as mini industrial parks in the seven local governments of Edo South. Mr Governor may wish to set up a working committee in conjunction with the palace to actualize this idea”.

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