Our reporter
The revered Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, has announced plans to appoint Okao Eguae across various Dukedoms in the Benin Kingdom where the Enigie (Dukes) have been indefinitely suspended.
The Okao Eguae, serving as district heads, will act as traditional liaison officers between the affected Dukedoms and the Oba’s Palace to ensure smooth governance and uphold traditional authority. This was disclosed by Oba Ewuare II during an enlarged meeting with Edionwere (village heads) and elders from the impacted areas, held at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City on Thursday.
Under the newly proposed traditional administrative system, Okao Eguae will be immediately deployed to Ehor, Ologbo, and Ulegun Dukedoms. The move is aimed at strengthening the traditional leadership structure in these areas, following the suspension of their respective Dukes.
The first-class traditional ruler assured that after the completion of funeral activities for his late mother, he would proceed with further appointments of Okao Eguae in additional locations. He also reaffirmed the ban on Community Development Associations (CDAs), which had been previously prohibited by the palace to prevent undue interference in traditional governance.
“We won’t just leave you alone. The suspended Enigie are no longer in charge,” the Oba stated. “If we allow it to remain that way, some of the youths will overrun their elders.”
Addressing the elders in Edo language, the monarch highlighted the presence of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, at the meeting as a testament to the alignment between the State government and traditional institutions.
The event also featured a special presentation by the Emehe and Isikhuan Royal Guilds, further solidifying the importance of traditional values in the governance of the Benin Kingdom.
The Oba’s latest directive underscores his commitment to maintaining the integrity of Benin’s traditional leadership structure and ensuring that governance in the kingdom remains stable and effective.
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