In a significant development, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has taken decisive action by suspending several traditional functionaries for their involvement in what has been described as a “sacrilegious show of shame and falsehood against the Benin Custom.” The suspended functionaries include Johnbull Igbinosun, Iduhonre (Ihogbe), S.E. Aigbiremwen, Efesieoghoba (Ogbelaka), as well as two other Ogbelaka functionaries identified as Ogbeide Osagie and Osamudiame Edo.
The suspension follows the circulation of video clips on social media showing the aforementioned individuals in the presence of the Ooni of Ife, where they allegedly misrepresented themselves as emissaries of Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin. In the video, they purportedly claimed allegiance to the Ooni and provided inaccurate and disjointed accounts of the historical connection between the Benin Royal Dynasty and the Ooni-ship of Ife.
The announcement of their suspension was made through a public statement issued on behalf of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) by the Iyase (Prime Minister) of Benin Kingdom, Chief Sam Igbe. The BTC condemned the actions of the suspended functionaries, labeling them as inappropriate, sacrilegious, and aimed at ridiculing traditional history while bringing disrepute to Benin custom.
While refraining from reiterating the well-known connection between the thrones of the Oba of Benin and the Ooni of Ife, the BTC urged the public to disregard the inaccurate accounts presented by the individuals involved. Instead, they encouraged individuals to refer to the official account of the historical connection between the two ancient monarchies as documented in the authoritative book titled “I Remain, Sir, Your Obedient Servant,” authored by the late Oba Erediauwa, Oba of Benin (1979 — 2016).
The decision to suspend the traditional functionaries was made by the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, His Royal Majesty Oba Ewuare II, who serves as the Prescribed Authority over Benin Custom. The BTC emphasized that the suspension serves as a clear message to the public to refrain from engaging with the suspended individuals in any traditional capacity within the Benin kingdom throughout their period of suspension.
The suspension of these functionaries underscores the importance of upholding the sanctity of tradition and historical accuracy within the Benin kingdom. It also highlights the authority of the Benin Monarch in maintaining order and discipline among traditional functionaries, ensuring that their actions align with the values and customs of the kingdom.
As the investigation into the incident continues, the Benin Traditional Council remains vigilant in safeguarding the integrity of Benin custom and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the kingdom. The suspension serves as a reminder to all traditional functionaries of their responsibility to uphold the dignity and honor of Benin tradition while adhering to the directives of the Oba and the Benin Traditional Council.
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