By IMELDA OSAYANDE

Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has called for an immediate ceasefire among political actors involved in the Edo South APC senatorial primary eligibility dispute.

The Oba made the appeal on Friday while receiving APC aspirant Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama and party leaders at his palace in Benin City.

He told the delegation that God would ultimately determine the final outcome of the contested Edo South senatorial primary dispute in due course.

The traditional ruler urged all aggrieved factions to embrace peace, close ranks, and prioritise stability and harmony across Edo above partisan differences.

Speaking in the Edo language, Ewuare II advised those dissatisfied with the primary outcome to remain calm, patient, and trust divine timing.

“God has plans for them, and aggrieved losers should know He is preparing them for something better.

“It is how God wants it to be. You cannot argue with God. His time is best. Cooperate and work together.

“The outcome will align with how God and our ancestors want it,” the Oba told the APC delegation.

Earlier, Ogbeide-Ihama presented his result sheet, insisting the APC national leadership had not issued a certificate of return to any declared winner.

He claimed the national party’s records indicated he won the Edo South senatorial primary election by a wide and decisive margin.

Ogbeide-Ihama said, as a son of Benin, he had come to formally pledge loyalty to the Oba and seek prayers for peace.

He added that he was awaiting the final verdict of the party’s highest decision-making organ on the disputed primary outcome.

The delegation to the palace was led by Edo Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, and former Deputy Governor, Pius Odubu.

Edo APC Chairman, Jarett Tenebe, and other party leaders also accompanied the delegation to the historic Benin royal palace. (NAN)