By Orumwense Sarah O.
In demonstration of his administration’s commitment to honoring the sacrifices of the Nation’s heroes past, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, has commemorated the year 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in a parade to declare the event opened at the Oba Ovonrame Square in Benin City.
Governor Okpebholo laid wreaths at the cenotaph, in honour of the memories of heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice during the First and Second World wars, as well as the Civil War to preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The poignant moment was accompanied by the release of pigeons by the Governor, symbolizing unity, and serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of coming together as one nation. The event also witnessed the release of the ceremonial gunfire in honour of the fallen heroes.
It would be recalled that Governor Okpebholo had earlier launched the Emblem Appeal Fund for the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration in December, 2024, with a pledge of ten million Naira.
In attendance were dignitaries including the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa; the Speaker, Edo House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa; the Head of Service Edo State, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa; the Chairman, Nigeria Legion, Edo State, A. C. G. Ignatius Enabulele; amongst other top government functionaries.
