By Ighomuaye Lucky. O
After the passage of three decades since the ceremony of initiating into an Elders Council was held in Okada, Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, Mr. Mike Osarenren Igbinedion, son of the Edo State billionaire, Gabriel Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, has been initiated into the group.
He was among the lucky ones who were selected for the initiation.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Odionwere of Okada, Pa Samson said in Benin society, age grades are significant socio-cultural institutions that organize people within similar age brackets, often within a range of a few years.
He added that it is a vital aspect of Okada community’s cultural heritage, emphasizing the significance of age, responsibility and community service.
Pa Samson maintained that the ceremony makes Mike eligible to become an Odionwere of the community in the future.
Samson said joining the Elders Council otherwise known as Edion, is a privilege typically reserved for respected individuals, who have served the community, demonstrated wisdom, integrity, and leadership.
He said that Elders Council plays a vital role in preserving culture and passing down traditions, customs, and historical knowledge to the younger generations.
He added that, historically, joining the Elders Council, Mike Igbinedion has attained a respectable age and has made significant contributions to the development of Okada community through leadership, service, or other meaningful ways.
Responding, Mr. Mike Osarenren Igbinedion thanked the elders of the community for considering him worthy of initiation into the Elders Council.
He said this marks a milestone in the journey of his life, adding that, such position has placed on him a huge responsibility of promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom.
He promised to join hands with the elders of the community to preserve the aged long tradition and custom of the people.
