Court Grants Oba of Benin’s Request to Join BTC in Suspension of Enigies Case

Justice Peter Akhihiero, presiding over the Edo State High Court in Benin, has approved the request of Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, to add the Benin Traditional Council as a defendant in a legal dispute involving him and the suspended Enigie (Dukes) in the Benin kingdom.

The decision was made during the hearing of the case on Thursday, as reported by Obasanjonews.com.

The suspended Enigie, including Professor Gregory Akenzua and Chief Edomwonyi Ogiegbaen, are contesting their suspension by the Oba of Benin in court, arguing that only the state governor has the authority to remove them from their positions.

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In response, Justice Akhihiero granted the Oba’s request to include the Benin Traditional Council as the 3rd defendant in the case, with Oba Ewuare II and the Edo State Government as the 1st and 2nd defendants, respectively.

Despite concerns about timing, the judge emphasized that speed and strength are not the determining factors in this legal battle, encouraging all parties to proceed with their legal processes without hindrance.

The case has been adjourned until July 15, 2024.