AUCHI: Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has described Auchi Kingdom as peaceful and one of the most progressive communities in the state.

Okpebholo made the remark at the 29th edition of the Auchi Day Celebration of Allah Most High, held in Auchi, the Headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State of Thursday.

The book: “Otaru Aliru Momoh of Auchi Sacred Kingdom” was presented to the guests at the colourful event.

Okpebholo, represented by the Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Godwin Eshieshe, said the reign of the Otaru of Auchi, Aliru Momoh, had brought peace and tranquility to the community.

“I want to congratulate our royal father for achieving this feat of 30 years on this throne.

“I also congratulate him on his 92nd anniversary in this earthly world.

“We take Auchi as a case study. The community has a very stable administrative process, which the Otaru has entrenched, the governor said.

He regretted that most communities in the state had issues, agitations, adding that the Otaru had ensured that peace and unity reigned in the area.

“That cohesion has brought Auchi together and it is moving in the right direction. I want to congratulate the Otaru for this noble feat,” he said.

Okpebholo further lauded the Otaru “for speaking truth to power at all times. Otaru has always stood firm and tall in all his decisions.

“He has always been there in terms of wise counsel.

“He is an icon and a builder of peace,” he said.

The governor purchased five copies of the book for N5 million on behalf of the State Government.

“And I should further inform us that the government will make sure some of the books are bought and sent to respective ministries,” he said.

Also speaking, Sen. Adams Oshiomhole thanked Otaru for supporting him throughout his political journey.

Oshiomhole commended the Otaru for his exemplary leadership qualities and effectively piloting the affairs of the community.

“The Otaru has been there for me throughout my political journey.

“All of us have respect for his leadership and today I feel very proud to be here to participate in the celebration of his biography.

“Our royal father command the respect of his people.

“I want to congratulate him on his 30 years on the throne and wish him long life on earth.

“May Almighty Allah bless him and keep him safe in the kingdom” Oshiomhole prayed.

Earlier, the Otaru thanked the governor and other traditional rulers for their unwavering support to him.

“I thank you all for the prayers and encouragement individually and collectively.

“I want to also thank sons and daughters of Auchi Sacred Kingdom for their good work, prayers, love and support.

“The youths, I thank you for your patience and vibrancy, as well as the vigilance team for maintaining peace and fighting against insecurity.

“I urge you all to continue to seek Allah’s praises, guidance and protection.

“May he vanquish all evil in Auchi Kingdom and Nigeria in general and bless our communities with peace and prosperity,” the Otaru prayed.