From Moshood Karim
Chief Emmanuel Iyase has extended his profound gratitude to the revered Benin monarch, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku-Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, for appointing him as Okao-Eguae (district head from the palace) to oversee the administration of Ologbo and Ehor dukedoms in Ikpoba-Okha and Uhumwonde Local Government Areas.
The appointment follows the suspension of the former Enigie (dukes) over allegations of traditional desecration, which the Benin monarch deemed inimical to the customs and traditions of the kingdom. As the newly appointed district head, Chief Iyase will now oversee the affairs of the two dukedoms on behalf of the Oba.
Chief Iyase conveyed his appreciation on Wednesday in Benin City while addressing journalists. He expressed deep honour and attributed the appointment to divine intervention, stating that he had not expected such recognition from the Oba.
“I wasn’t expecting it. That’s why I was so excited when it came. I will forever remain grateful to His Royal Majesty, His Divine Eminence, the Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku-Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II,” he stated.
Reflecting on the significance of his appointment, Chief Iyase emphasised that it was more than just a title, as
it carried the responsibility of serving as a messenger of the monarch. “It is a great honour for the Oba to personally appoint me to take care of the city quarter on behalf of the palace,” he remarked.
He further highlighted the rare privilege of being personally recognised by the Oba, noting that the appointment brought immense honour not only to his family but also to the entire Benin community, both at home and abroad. He recalled with great joy how he celebrated with his family, friends, and associates during a thanksgiving ceremony.
Responding to questions about whether his appointment was a reward for leading the operation to depose the former Enigie, Chief Iyase clarified that the deposed Enigie had committed a sacrilegious act by declaring independence from the Oba and attempting to establish their own kingdom.
“I was just a messenger sent to deliver the suspension letter to the defiant Enigie across 69 communities, in addition to the three Enigie who had already been suspended, making it a total of 71 communities,” he explained. “We were happy carrying out this task, and I learned a lot. I am proud to be from Benin.”
He reiterated his unwavering loyalty to the Benin kingdom and his commitment to protecting its traditions. “We do not have gold and diamond, but we have our Oba. The Benins can proudly say that our greatest treasure today is the palace of the Oba. So why should we sit back and watch certain elements drag our sacred tradition through the mud?” he questioned.
Chief Iyase emphasised that his actions were driven by a strong belief in safeguarding the rich cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom. “Benin, or Edo, is the cradle of Black civilisation and an eye-opener to the Black world. It is not just a saying—it is a reality. In our culture, no son or daughter challenges their parents, let alone the revered monarch,” he asserted.
He described his appointment as a reward and expressed his deep sense of fulfilment. “I took up the challenge not because I expected a reward, but because I believed it was my duty. However, now that the reward has come, my heart is full of joy.”
Speaking on his reception in Ologbo following his appointment, Chief Iyase recounted the warm welcome from the people and residents. “The ovation was overwhelming. The people were not only happy, but they also extended a heartfelt hand of fellowship, appreciating the Oba’s decision. They even sent a goodwill message and a gift to the Oba to express their gratitude.”
He noted that before the suspension of the former Enogie, he had been ruling as though he were an emperor, misleading the people into believing he had autonomy. However, his suspension made the residents realise their true allegiance to the Oba of Benin.
Chief Iyase vowed to adhere strictly to the instructions of the Oba in overseeing the Ologbo and Ehor dukedoms. “I promised the Oba that I would diligently carry out his directives and ensure that my personal interests do not override the well-being of the people of Ologbo and Ehor. My role in these communities will foster greater unity and harmony under the reign of our revered Oba.”
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
