From Moshood KARIM
In a regal ceremony steeped in centuries-old tradition, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin, has conferred the prestigious Akenuwa of Benin Chieftaincy title on Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, a former royal sceptre bearer to the late Oba Erediauwa.
The conferment, which took place over the weekend at the Ugha Ozolua axis of the Oba’s Palace in Benin City, marks the first Chieftaincy title to be awarded by the Oba since the conclusion of the funeral rites of his beloved mother, Her Royal Highness Iyoba Omo N’Ikuoyemwen, Iyoba Ewuare.
Chief Osaigbovo, now known formally as the Akenuwa of Benin, is a member of Iweguae within the Eghaevbo N’ Ogbe royal guild in the Benin Kingdom. Widely regarded as humility personified, he was honoured for his unwavering courage, dedication, and passionate service to the Kingdom.
The event featured the traditional Ekpomwen-abor rite – a thanksgiving and appreciation ceremony observed after the conferment of a chieftaincy title. Senior Palace Chiefs, including Adanegbe Igbinoba, the Eribo of Benin, and Osaro Idah, extended the Oba’s best wishes to the newly installed chief, who danced joyfully before the monarch to the admiration of all present.
Chief Akenuwa had played a significant role during the funeral of Iyoba Ewuare, an experience he described as a reflection of the evolution of the Benin monarchy and culture over the centuries.
Attendees at the ceremony included family members, friends, and well-wishers, alongside worshippers from the Holy Aruosa Cathedral led by the presiding priest, Ohen-Osa Edebiri Igbinoghodua.
In his remarks, Chief Akenuwa expressed deep gratitude to Oba Ewuare II for the honour and pledged to uphold the trust placed in him. “A Chief is a disciple of the Oba of Benin,” he noted, adding that chieftaincy titles are earned through hard work and unwavering dedication.
He offered prayers to Almighty God and his ancestors for strength and guidance in his new role, ahead of a planned pilgrimage to sacred sites within the Benin Kingdom.
The Akenuwa of Benin, fondly called Oziya, now joins the ranks of esteemed custodians of Benin’s enduring heritage and traditions.
