Philip Shaibu, who has returned as Edo State Deputy Governor, on Sunday advised elected leaders to avoid confrontation with traditional institutions.
He said this while speaking at the 8th commemorative service of the Oba of Benin held at St. Aruosa Church in Benin.
He urged Governor-elect Okpeboro on Monday to work in harmony with traditional institutions to ensure success after taking the oath of office on November 12.
Scheib said the position of governor general is temporary, but the position of monarch will remain.
“My advice to elected leaders is to avoid conflict with traditional institutions because power is temporary,” he said.
“The reason I need to speak from the heart is because there are lessons that must be learned every day. I will start with just one. By midnight on November 11th, I will be a former lieutenant governor.
“Eight years ago, after the coronation of His Majesty the King, we took the oath. So, the lieutenant governor will leave, but our Oba will remain. It is a lesson for all of us.
“No matter how high you are, you will never know that. Even if you are an Oba of Benin, please do not try to tamper with or adjust anything regarding the traditional system. Not just me. We are all so proud of you when we go out.
“There are two kingdoms in the world, the Kingdom of Benin and the rest of the world. But when we want to help them adapt, we call them the Kingdom of Benin and the United Kingdom. That is the truth.
“Philip Shaibu and others will be ex-lawmakers by November 12th. Our Oba will remain. That is a lesson for all of us. And the next governor, my brother and the Oba’s son. I would also like to convey this message to Senator Monday Okpebolo.”
