Why I cancelled 5th anniversary, Oba of Benin 

The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has cancelled all preparation towards the celebration of his birthday and 5th year coronation anniversary, this is to honour late business and philanthropist, Capt. Hosa Okunbo .

This was contained in a statement, dated Oct. 11 and signed by the Secretary, Benin Traditional Council, Mr. Frank Irabor, “on behalf of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II.”

According to the statement, the postponement is to honour Capt. Hosa Okunbo whom he describes as an “illustrious son” of the state.

“Hosa” as he was fondly called, died in the UK on Aug. 8, 2021, and was buried in Benin on Oct. 8.

The statement read: “Oba of Benin wishes to inform the general public that as a result of the demise of Capt. Idahosa Wells Okunbo, and his burial a few days ago, His Royal Majesty has directed that all events lined up to mark the fifth coronation anniversary celebration on 20 October 2021, should be postponed.

“Capt. Okunbo was an illustrious son of Edo State in whom we were well pleased. May his gentle soul continue to rest in peace.”

Idahosa “Hosa” Wells Okunbo (7 January 1958 – 8 August 2021) was a Nigerian business magnate, investor, philanthropist, and trained commercial pilot. He served as either chairman or director on numerous company boards in Nigeria, spanning multiple business sectors such as the agro-allied, petroleum, telecommunications, power, real estate, and banking industries. He was born in Benin City to the family of Reverend Robert Amos Okunbo, a clergyman, teacher, and community leader.