By joshua 
Oligbi-Edeko Honoured At Ujiogba Ihuen Festival
By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin city
Ujiogba, Edo State — Former Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Marie Omozele Oligbi-Edeko, joined the Onogie of Ujiogba, HRH Zaiki Solomon Izuware I, and residents on Saturday for the Ihuen Festival, a celebration of the kingdom’s traditions and culture.
The monarch praised Oligbi-Edeko for her contributions to governance and community development, describing her as “a woman of impeccable character and an administrative technocrat” who distinguished herself both as commissioner and lawmaker.
The monarch honoured Oligbi-Edeko with an Award of Excellence for her dedication to public service.
In response, she thanked the Onogie and Ujiogba residents, saying she was pleasantly surprised and pledging continued commitment to the kingdom and Esan land.
She further applauded the Royal father and the Ujiogba people for keeping the cultural heritage of the kingdom and prayed that the God Almighty will continue to guide and protect the people of the Ujiogba kingdom.
She further added that the award has lifted her zeal and will to do more for the society. “I will continue to stand on the side of integrity and righteousness”.
She praised the state governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo for his developmental strides and commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the people of Edo State, noting that the Governor has remained focused on ensuring that the SHINE Agenda is fully implemented for the benefit of Edo residents.
She further appealed to all Esans and Edo people in general to join hands with the governor to make sure he succeeded in the developmental agenda for the state adding that the governor means well for the people of the state.
She dedicated the award to her husband, Dr. Tony Edeko and her children.
Among those hourned were Chief Patrick Agbator, the CEO of Chosen hotel, (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe, Patrick Anegbe, Engr Paul Ogedegbe, Dr Richard Afuwa and others.
The event attracted community leaders, elders, youths, cultural dances by different quarters from Ujiogba Kingdom, Igbo , Benue and other traditional groups with well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the cultural festival and honour distinguished personalities.