‘Sultan Coronation’ In Edo Sacrilegious, Threat To Peace, Security, Says govt

Edo State Government has condemned the planned coronation of Idriss Addano as the ‘Sultan of Shuwa Arab of Edo State’.

It described the alleged move as sacrilegious and a threat to peace and security.

Secretary to Edo State Government (SSG) Osarodion Ogie on Thursday in an online statement, assured residents that a firm and a decisive action would be taken to prevent the actualisation of the illegal act.

Ogie said: “Edo State Government has been inundated with complaints from indigenes and residents over the alleged move to embark on the coronation of Idriss Addano as the ‘Sultan of Shuwa Arab of Edo State.’

“The government wishes to state as follows: That whether or not this event is held at the said, or any other location within the state, it will constitute a direct assault on the tradition, custom and culture of the people of Edo State, by individuals who clearly have sinister motives and are trying to abuse the well-known Edo hospitality by their act of sacrilege.

“That it is a potential threat to the peace and security of Edo State, with the capacity to cause a breakdown of law and order, as citizens of the state are likely to be provoked by the obnoxious ceremony.

“Under the Edo State Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Law, it is an offence for anyone to proclaim himself, or allow himself to be proclaimed as the holder of any traditional title not recognised under the said law and/or without the approval of the appropriate authorities.”

The SSG said anybody found to have been involved in the conception and/or execution of the illegality would face the full wrath of the law.

He said residents should be calm and law-abiding, as the Governor Godwin Obaseki administration was on top of the situation.