From Moshood Karim
A civic group, Aiguobasimwin Movement, has criticised prominent Igbo figures for what it describes as a deliberate silence over attempts to distort the traditional authority of the Benin Kingdom in Igbanke, a community in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State.
The group, in a strongly-worded statement issued on Saturday, a copy of which was obtained by Uptown Press Nigeria, its President, Iyamu Osaro Culture, and Secretary, Osayuki-Osa Benson, accused certain Igbanke individuals—backed by the youth wing of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and four suspended Enigie—of undermining the Benin monarchy.
The four Enigie (local Dukes) were previously suspended by the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, for alleged insubordination and rebellion. The Aiguobasimwin Movement said their actions, and the failure of Igbo leaders to denounce them, constituted “an affront to the sacred traditions” of the Benin Kingdom.
The group warned against the sale of land and property to individuals it described as “secessionist agitators” and called for a stakeholders’ summit involving community leaders, youth representatives, and developers to create awareness and preserve Benin heritage.
Describing Ohanaeze Youth Council’s intervention as misguided, the group likened their statements to “a sheep without a shepherd” and called on the Edo populace to resist any attempt to revise historical facts.
“The Benin Empire historically extended its influence over vast territories, including the Niger Delta and even parts of Yoruba land,” the statement asserted. “It is bewildering that settlers in Igbanke, with roots in Benin, would now seek to dominate their hosts.”
Uptown Press Nigeria had earlier reported that the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) reaffirmed that titles such as “Obi” or “Eze” have never been recognised within the traditional structure of Edo State. In a joint statement signed by top palace chiefs, including the Esere, Oliha, Obazelu, and Obasogie of Benin, the council dismissed claims by the Igbanke dissident group as “historically inaccurate and legally baseless.”
The BTC reiterated that the Igbanke people historically migrated from Benin and have always been under the spiritual and traditional jurisdiction of the Oba of Benin. The Council warned that attempts by a few individuals to incite division through false claims could destabilise the region.
It called on law enforcement and the wider public to remain vigilant, emphasising the need to protect the peace and unity of Edo State amidst growing tensions surrounding traditional leadership and land rights in Igbanke.
