President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday, mourned the passing away of the highly revered traditional ruler of Benin Kingdom, Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa, saying he received the news with sadness and an immense feeling of great national loss.

Oba of Benin Kingdom, Benin Kingdom, Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa

A statement by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity), said: “On behalf of the Federal Government, President Buhari extends sincere condolences to Governor Adams Oshiomhole, the people of Benin Kingdom and Edo State on the passage of the beloved monarch who had ruled over his people since his ascension to the throne in 1979.

“The President extends special commiserations to Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa and other members of the late Oba’s immediate family.

“President Buhari assures them of the fullest sympathy and solidarity of the Federal Government and all Nigerians as they mourn Oba Erediauwa who will always be remembered as one of the most outstanding traditional rulers of his era.

“As the late Oba goes to join his very illustrious royal ancestors, President Buhari believes that his place of honour in the history of the Benin Kingdom and Nigeria has been assured by his long and highly successful career as a public servant, administrator and chief custodian of the much celebrated culture and traditions of his people.

“The President prays that God Almighty will receive the late Oba’s soul and grant him peaceful repose.

“He also prays that God will grant Crown Prince Erediauwa the wisdom and courage he will require to build on the laudable legacies of Oba Erediauwa.”