Oba of Benin receives Catholic Bishops, charges them to pray for Nigeria, its leaders
The Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II has called for prayer for the peace, security, unity and progress of the country. Oba Ewuare II made the call at the weekend when he received the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria, led by the President, Arch Bishop (Dr.) Ignatius Kaigama in his Palace in Benin City.
The Oba of Benin said the visit which coincides with the first Coronation Anniversary will no doubt bring God’s blessings to the Palace and the Kingdom.
His Royal Majesty used the opportunity to trace the long standing relationship between Benin Kingdom and the Catholic Mission, which according to the Omo N’Oba metamorphosed into what is known today as the Holy Aruosa Cathedral in Benin City.
The Benin Monarch said he is a product of the Catholic Mission, having attended Immaculate Conception College, Benin City where he got academic, moral and spiritual training.
The Oba of Benin recognised the importance of women in the life of man, pointing out that it was right to celebrate Lady Fatima and Mary the mother of Jesus Christ.
While wishing the Catholic Bishop a successful conference in Benin City, Oba Ewuare II charged them to pray for peace and security in Benin Kingdom and for all the nation’s leaders for them to have more wisdom to lead the people.
Earlier, the President of the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria, Arch. Bishop (DR.) Ignatius Kaigama informed the Monarch that they were in Benin City for the apparition of Mary the mother of Jesus Christ to three ladies at Fatima.
The Catholic Bishop said during the conference they would be dedicating Benin City and Nigeria to God in prayers so that God Almighty through the intercession of Mary would intervene in the affairs of this country.
There was a special prayer session led by Cardinal Sunday Onaiyekan where prayer was offered for the peace and progress of Benin Kingdom, and for the guidance and protection of the Oba of Benin, members of the Royal Family, Palace Chiefs and the entire people in Benin Kingdom and indeed Nigeria.
Titus Akhigbe, Benin
