The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, says he remains impartial and will always pray for politicians seeking elective office, requesting his blessing and support.

The monarch spoke on Wednesday when he received APC governorship aspirant Oserheimen Osunbor and Labour Party governorship aspirant Kenneth Imansuangbon.

The aspirants were at the palace at different times to ask for the king’s royal blessings and support.

The monarch prayed for them and wished them well in their aspirations.

The arrival of the aspirants at the palace courtyard appeared carnival-like, with each accompanied by different support groups and cultural dancers.

Speaking on Mr Osunbor’s ambition, the monarch said the capability of the aspirant was not in doubt. He promised him that a prayer team would be put in place so that he would be free from any harm and achieve his heart’s desire.

Mr Osunbor was Edo’s governor between May 2007 and November 2008 before he was removed and replaced by Adams Oshiomhole.

“I know it is in the interest of Your Royal Majesty that whoever is coming to govern the state should be somebody who has the interest of the state at heart and prepared to do what is required to elevate Edo to an enviable height,” stated Mr Osunbor.

The king also prayed for Mr Imansuangbon to have a hitch-free campaign ahead of the poll in 2024. Mr Imansuangbon told the king that he came to seek his blessing and support as he embarked on his campaign for the poll.

Mr Imansuangbon said, “As my father, there is no way I can embark on my journey to the Government House without having the blessings of my father. My desire to govern Edo is to bring purpose and pattern to good governance.”

Mr Imansuangbon promised the monarch that his administration would be just and firm. When elected, Mr Imansuangbon assured that he would welcome the wise counsel of the traditional institution on the best ways to move the state forward.

The Labour Party aspirant also promised to provide adequate security for lives and property in the state by creating jobs for the teeming unemployed youths.

(NAN)