A group of market women in Benin, Edo State, have thrown their weight behind Oba Ewuare II following the tension sparked by the installation of an Iyaloja in the state.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, October 7, by the Chief Press Secretary to the Oba, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the women visited the palace on Monday to express solidarity with the monarch. They praised him for standing firm in defence of Benin’s long-held traditions.
Their visit followed the recent installation of Pastor Josephine Ibhaguezejele as the state’s Iyaloja by the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu.
The event, held at the Government House in Benin last Tuesday, drew sharp reactions from the palace.
During Tinubu-Ojo’s visit to the palace that same day, Oba Ewuare II stated that the concept of Iyaloja was foreign to Benin culture.
He said, “The concept of Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. In Benin, you are in the home of culture; we have our culture here. I have discussed this matter with my chiefs and those who are knowledgeable.
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“Do you know the role of Iyeki in Benin culture? Every Iyeki has a special relationship with the palace. Are you aware of that? Do you know that every Iyeki has a cultural role to perform in every market?”
“The Oba does not interfere so long as Iyeki does what is expected of her in the shrine of a particular market on behalf of the Oba. We are not going to say much except to explain to you the concept of Iyeki in Benin.”
Speaking for the market women, Florence Ahunwan said, “We are in the palace on a solidarity visit to the Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II, over the heat generated by the installation of Iyaloja in the state.
“His position on the matter is correct, and we commend our royal father for upholding Benin’s rich culture and tradition.”
In his response, the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, alongside other palace chiefs, thanked the women for their visit and assured them their message would be conveyed to the Oba.
He also urged them to remain peaceful in their business activities across markets.