Standing, (2nd from L), POWA President, Hajia Alkali Baba Usman addressing the Monarch HRM Oba Ewuare II
By Kingsley Abavo, Benin
The Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) on Tuesday, 14 September, 2021 paid the Benin Monarch HRM Oba Ewuare II a courtesy visit and seek royal blessings.
The Association led by the President, wife of the Inspector-general of Police, Hajia Alkali Baba Usman, was in Edo State on a work visit as part of its activities.
Addressing the Monarch, Hajia Usman said she assumed office on the 5th of May, 2021and Edo State is the 7th she was visiting officially.
According to her, she was in the State to assess the well-being of the Association’s members since the COVID-19 pandemic era, and End-SARS protest that threatened the peace of the nation.
The visit she asserts, became necessary; as members of the Association and their families have been demoralized physically, mentally and otherwise as a result.
“Hence, I am going round to encourage them to enable restoration of the confidence lost during the period.”
Speaking on her duties, the President told the Monarch that her administration was working on three points agenda for members; ‘Education, Health and Welfare.’
In line with this, in each State visited, she inspects primary and secondary Schools of Police children to evaluate their overall state “because I wouldn’t mind if they win scholarship like every other child.”
Also, members of the Association are encouraged to attend to their health and well-being, by regularly visiting their doctors and the Police hospital.
This is as they are empowered to gain self reliance and confidence.
Hajia Usman acknowledged support of the Monarch for the Police in the nation, especially Edo.
Responding, HRM Oba Ewuare II commended the President and members of her entourage for not just coming, but also keeping to time schedule unlike the menfolk in the Police.
The Palace he said, was always concerned about the welfare, and safety of the security Agencies including the Police; how well equipped they are, considering the heightened insecurity in the country.
“We always pray to God and our ancestors for their safety, to keep them from harm’s way in the very delicate job they do.”
Oba Ewuare II commended the POWA President for her efforts in restoring confidence and hope of members, in the COVID-19 pandemic and End-SARS protest era.
Urging her to do more, the Monarch prayed God and his ancestors to give her wisdom and strength in the discharge of her responsibilities.
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