BENIN CITY-Residents of Benin and dignitaries across socio-political, cultural, religious, education and economic divide that graced the historic coronation of the Oba of Benin, yesterday, hailed the tight security witnessed in and around Urhu-Okpota, venue of the ceremony in Benin City.

The dignitaries most of whom diplomats, traditional rulers, religious and political leaders as well as captain of industries variously described the security as commendable.

They lauded the unequal love for tradition displayed by the residents who thronged out en masse and waited patiently to welcome the new Oba of Benin Kingdom.

Chief Obazoriaye of Benin Kingdom while expressing joy at the coronation, commended the security agents for leaving up to expectations.

Security operatives including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), Immigration Services, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence (NSCD), and private security outfit had hectic moment during the ceremony.

Roads linking the popular Oba Ovoramwen Square as known as Ring Road were condoned off at strategic junctions by a combined teams security agencies which also controlled the increased traffic that ensued.

Commenting on the security arrangements for the coronation, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State Mr Gwandu Haliru said the command drafted 5,000 personnel to ensure adequate security of residents and dignitaries.

He added that the need to beef up security for such event cannot be undermined.

The NIGERIAN OBSERVER checks revealed that Airport Road, King Square and some other roads around the received some face-left as large colourful banners of the new Oba adorned major roads in the ancient City.

Hotels, motor parks, hawkers of snacks, water and beverages, the Benin Airport and other business centres recorded unprecedented patronage in the City.