Oba of Benin loses brother

Oba of Benin loses brother
By Jethro Ibileke


October 26, 2011 06:46PM
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The Benin palace has been thrown into morning following the death of Prince Godwin Akenzua, younger brother of the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediuawa.

A source in the palace who confirmed the death to newsmen in Benin on Wednesday, said that the late Prince Akenzua died in his sleep at the weekend. Until his death, Prince Akenzua, who died at the age of 80 was the Enogie of Okodighi.

According to the source, the prince was hale and healthy when he went to bed on Saturday night, but was later found dead by his family members around 11pm.

Meanwhile, Edo State governor Adams Oshiomhole has commiserated with the bereaved traditional ruler on the death of his younger brother.

In a condolence letter, Governor Oshiomhole said:

“I learnt with great shock and grief about the passing on of Prince Godwin Akenzua, the Enogie of Okodighi. I offer the condolence of the people and government of Edo State as well as my personal commiseration over the loss of His Highness.

“Our hearts are with our father, the Omo N’Oba, at this difficult moment. As the patriarch of the Akenzua family and as the Oba of Benin, we can appreciate how pained Your Royal Majesty would be over this incident.

“By his passing on, Prince Akenzua’s dukedom has lost a father figure, who dispensed goodwill and compassion with so much ease and grace. In essence, Edo State would indeed miss the services of a distinguished traditional ruler, who ably helped to share the burden of governance at the grassroots.

“We pray God to give Your Royal Majesty the fortitude to bear the loss of a beloved brother, a confidant and an esteemed elder of the Kingdom. As he joins his illustrious ancestors, we pray for the repose of his gentle soul and beseech God to comfort the family that he has left behind.”





Prince Godwin Akenzua, the younger brother of the Oba of Benin, died at the age of 80 in his sleep.


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