Anxiety has gripped Edo residents over the rumour making the rounds about the purported death of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Erediauwa I.

Speculation that the worst may have happened to the paramount ruler of the Edo Nation is rife in the state capital, Benin City.

“He has reportedly been sick, and it was said that his health took a turn for the worse when he lost his wife last year,” a source told News Express.

“People here are speaking in hushed tones about his health. There’s always general silence amongst the people when it comes to issues involving the Oba’s health,” the source said, adding:

“Out of respect and fear of the king, no one would want to speak about or officially break the news if it is indeed true that he is dead, unless directed by the palace.”

News Express Oba Erediauwa has been out of circulation for a while and eyebrows were raised when he could not personally receive President Goodluck Jonathan during the latter’s campaign visit to Benin City.

Born in 1923 and formerly known as Prince Solomon Akenzua, Erediuwa was crowned the 38th Oba of Benin on March 23, 1979 following the death of his father, Oba Akenzua II.

•Photo shows Oba Erediauwa I.