Chief David Edebiri, the Esogban of Benin kingdom is 92 years old today. It is a very remarkable achievement to reach such height these days given the indifference towards the welfare of senior citizens in Nigeria by the relevant governments. He is an extraordinarily talented Benin historian and human repository of Benin cosmogony, customary practices, heritage as well as being an etymological authority on Benin language.
Any ambitious student who spends 30 minutes with the legendary Esogban of Benin would acquire the knowledge equivalent of an ordinary diploma ( OND) on the topic that was under reference. Only few men of his Age group have been intellectually, socially and customarily active as the great Esogban in contemporary times.
It is easier to acquaint yourself with the political history of Nigeria by listening to him than to hope to get such from reading a number of books.
His account is a concise version of painstaking research, pragmatism, real-time experience and intellectualism.
On the occasion of his birthday, my family, Lawfirm and I wish him many more happy years on earth, good health, continuous prosperity and robust participation in our national and traditional life.
May God be with him always.
Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa.
