From Ebohon Joan
The Oba of Benin, His Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku’Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has indefinitely suspended members of the Isikhuan royal praise singers over an alleged violation of palace rules and Benin traditional customs.
The suspension came after the group reportedly performed a traditional act said to be reserved exclusively for the Oba during a ceremony at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, in Edo State.
Following the incident, the Oba also removed the group’s leader, Juliet Omogui, from her traditional position as Okao.
In a statement issued by the Oba’s Chief Press Secretary, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Omogui was said to have admitted to the alleged offence in a video that circulated on social media.
She was also ordered to return the traditional headgear known as Okuku to the palace pending further instructions from the monarch.
The development was announced by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency meeting at the palace on Sunday.
Members of the Isikhuan group were given the opportunity to explain their individual involvement in the incident.
Chief Idah and other palace chiefs expressed disappointment over what they described as disrespect for the Benin monarchy and its traditions.
Other chiefs present at the meeting included Chief Ada Igbinovia, Eribo N’Ibiwe; Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos, Oshodi N’Ibiwe; and Chief Enoma Ogiesughe, Ogiesughe N’Ewaise, among others.
The chiefs stressed the need for everyone involved in palace activities to respect established Benin customs, especially traditions surrounding ceremonies and performances reserved for the Oba.
The palace also questioned why Chief Igbinedion allowed the group to carry out the traditional performance at his residence despite his knowledge of Benin customs.
According to the statement, Chief Idah noted that Igbinedion had in the past shown respect for the customs and traditions of the Benin Kingdom.
The Oba’s decision to suspend the group indefinitely reflects the importance the Benin Palace places on traditional practices and the need to preserve customs considered sacred and exclusive to the monarch.
