The Oba of Benin’s palace has once again found itself in conflict with Governor Godwin Obaseki.
The palace clarified that the activities of Okaigheles had not been prohibited in the seven local government areas of Edo South in the Benin Kingdom.
The Oba of Benin’s palace emphasized that the Okaigheles were an integral part of the longstanding traditional administrative structure of Benin.
Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin, addressed the protesting Edo South Okaigheles, who were seeking the palace’s intervention.
Governor Obaseki recently announced a crackdown on cult-related activities in Edo State, leading to the ban of Okaigheles in the seven LGAs of Edo South senatorial district.
Despite this, Chief Osaro Idah assured that the palace would engage in dialogue with the Edo State Government regarding this issue.
He urged the Okaigheles to maintain peace and order in their respective domains, emphasizing that the palace would not protect anyone involved in illicit activities.
Chief Osaro Idah explained that Okaighele has been a longstanding tradition in Benin Kingdom, assisting the Odionwere in the daily administration of the domain.
The prohibition of Okaighele cannot be enforced through a decree as it is a tradition belonging to the Benin ancestors. We will notify the relevant authorities of your concerns.
You have not been prohibited, however, the palace will not endorse any acts of violence or aggression towards individuals or groups within the communities. If anyone is apprehended, the palace will collaborate with the government to ensure legal action is taken against such individuals.
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