The Onojie of Ekpoma, HRH Zaiki Anthony Abumere 11 has expressed profound gratitude to the governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki over the award of the second section of the Ebhoakhala-Ihumudumu-Ujemen-Iruekpen Road, in Ekpoma, Edo State.
The monarch gave the commendation at his palace while speaking to journalists concerning the forthcoming Annual Eguare-Ekpoma Cultural Festival (Ihuen) billed to hold from March 3 to March 6, 2022 in the university town of Ekpoma.
The visibly elated traditional ruler pointed out that by the gesture, the governor had proven to be a true democrat, who is committed to alleviating the sufferings of the people.
He lamented that the section of the road was becoming a nightmare for road users, enthusing that when completed it would bring out the esthetic beauty of the town.
He reiterated his advice to the contractor, Setraco Nigeria Limited, to ensure natives of the community were recruited during the construction work.
Meanwhile, the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere 11 has called on the Federal Government to urgently effect repairs on the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi Highway, especially in Ekpoma town before the raining season fully sets in.
He said the call became necessary following the gridlock that accompanied the little rain that fell in Ekpoma last Tuesday, warning that the road would become completely impassable, if urgent intervention was not carried out.
Speaking on the cultural festival, the monarch revealed that this year’s edition of the festival will feature presentation of scholarship to indigent students, football competition, lecture, cultural displays, prayers for sons and daughters, both home and abroad, and even non natives, among others.
He used the opportunity to appeal to the government to support traditional rulers financially to enable them celebrate their various cultural festivals to preserve the cultural heritages of the people.