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| * Oba of Benin |
The Palace of the Oba of Benin has expressed its readiness to partner
with the British Embassy in Nigeria to stem the ugly tide of human
trafficking.
The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II disclosed this when he played host to
the British Deputy High Commissioner, Laura Beavfils in his Palace in
Benin City.
The Benin Monarch described human trafficking as evil, which affects
everyone negatively, and commended the British government for its
effort at fighting the social menace.
Oba Ewuare II called for the judicious use of the fund earmarked for
the exercise, while proper supervision and monitoring mechanism should
be put in place to ensure effectiveness.
His Royal Majesty used the opportunity to draw the attention of the
British Deputy High Commissioner to investment opportunities in the
Gelegele export free zone as well as the Art, Culture and Tourism
potentials in Benin Kingdom. Oba Ewuare II told his visitors that if
the youths have job to do, they will not engage in social vices such
as human trafficking, drug peddling or other criminalities.
The Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II also called on the
British government to return the artifacts carted away from Benin
Kingdom, which the Oba of Benin said will be used to stock the palace
museum and promote our cultural heritage.
The British Deputy High Commissioner Laura Beavfils said they were in
the palace to show friendship and partnership, strengthen trade and
commercial relationship, increase investment and business
opportunities.
Importantly, they were in Edo State to provide support to government
on human trafficking, which she said was of great concern to British
government.
The British Deputy High Commissioner disclosed that about 33 and half
million pounds have been set aside by her home government for
prosecuting the fight against human trafficking and for providing
support to victims.
She said of the amount about 5 million pounds would be spent in
Nigeria and solicited the support of the Oba of Benin in ensuring the
success of the partnership.
The Oba of Benin also received the Management of Nigerian Bottling
Company Limited who was in the Palace to appreciate the Benin Monarch
for his intervention and restoration of the crisis they have been
having with their host community in Eyaen.
Oba Ewuare II said the few investments in Benin Kingdom must be
protected and encouraged to remain in operation
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