BY SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the
Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom in Delta State, HRM, Emmanuel Sideso Abe I on his 18th coronation anniversary and called for sustainable peace.
The president expressed his congratulations on Saturday during royal father’s 18th coronation anniversary ceremony held at the king’s palace in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state.
The president was represented at the ceremony by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Department, Mr Festus Keyamo.
He said that the royal father’s reign was a testament to the peace being enjoyed in the kingdom.
In his address of welcome, the traditional ruler urged aviation operators to review their ticket prices downward.
The king emphasised that high transportation cost, particularly air transport was preventing many Nigerians from travelling and participating in important national and social events.
The traditional ruler also called for national unity and constitutional reforms to strengthen citizens’ sense of belonging in the country
The king who used the occasion to unveil his book, “Odyssey of Royalty” described the publication as a legacy for the future generations.
“I sincerely appeal to airlines operating in the country to consider a downward review of airfares in the best interest of national development,” he said.
The king noted that insecurity on the highways had made air travelling the preferred option for many citizens amidst unbearable but the rising cost of tickets.
“With the fearful trend of insecurity in the country, flying is now presumed safer than other means of transport, but the sky-rocketing cost of flying is becoming unbearable.
“Some Nigerians jokingly argue that paying high airfares is cheaper than negotiating ransom with kidnappers on the roads.
“Such a reality reflects the urgent need for improvements in security and transport policy, it is funny at all,” he said.
The royal father advocated for a workable constitution that would guarantee justice and equity for all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic or religious background.
He urged leaders at all levels to sustain policies that would reposition the nation for sustainable growth.
“We have come to a point in our national advancement that we must resolve to unite and produce a workable constitution that will give every Nigerian a sense of belonging and pride, guaranteeing justice and fairness,” he said.
Beyond book launch, the ceremony also featured cultural display.
In attendance were: Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, represented by his Chief of Staff Mr Johnson Erijo, Chairman, Uvwie Local Government Area, Mr Anthony Ofoni, royal fathers and amongst others.
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