The Oba of Benin Ewuare II has expressed concern over the presence of United States security forces in Nigeria and the escalating global tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
The monarch spoke on Thursday when the newly deployed 4 Brigade Commander of the Nigerian Army in Benin City, Ahmed Balogun, paid him a courtesy visit at the palace.
According to the traditional ruler, American troops are currently in Nigeria assisting the military in the fight against insurgency. While acknowledging the support, he prayed for the safety of both Nigerian soldiers and the foreign forces working alongside them.
“The American troops are in the country assisting the Nigerian military to fight insurgency,” the Oba said, pledging the continued backing of traditional institutions to troops defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
He also prayed to God and his ancestors to protect both Nigerian and US security personnel from harm.
Before ascending the throne, the monarch served Nigeria in diplomatic roles, including as ambassador to Scandinavian countries and Italy.
During the visit, Major-General Balogun said he came to formally notify the palace of his deployment and to seek royal prayers and support for his command.
He noted that collaboration with local communities and traditional institutions remains vital for security operations.
“When we meet people who support us to achieve our mandate of protecting and defending the nation, it is only proper to acknowledge such support,” Balogun said.
The brigade commander also highlighted the cultural and historical ties between the Yoruba people and the Benin Kingdom.
“I am a Yoruba by tribe, and I know we share close affinity with the Benin throne. Even in school, I read so much about the great throne of the Oba of Benin,” he added.
In a related development, the monarch also received Josephine Ogbefun, Assistant Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service Zone G, alongside members of her management team.
The delegation visited the palace to seek prayers and royal support for the service’s operations.
