Hundreds of market women in Edo State took to the streets to voice their opposition to the purported imposition of Pastor Mrs. Josephine Ebhaguejezele as Iyaloja of Edo Market, rejecting the move as unconstitutional.
Led by the Chairman of Edo State Market Women Association, Mrs. Blacky Ogiamen, the protesters emphasized their commitment to upholding the association’s long-standing traditions and laws.
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“We categorically reject the illegal inauguration of Iyaloja of Edo State,” Mrs. Ogiamen declared.
“Our association is guided by a clear legal framework, and we will not tolerate any attempts to undermine our autonomy.”
Mrs. Ogiamen highlighted her leadership’s legitimacy, citing the association’s decades-long history and the endorsement of successive Benin monarchs.
“We are the genuine representatives of Edo State’s market women, and our association has enjoyed peace and stability under my leadership since Oba Erediauwa’s reign,” she stated.
The protesters also emphasized their non-partisan stance, reiterating their support for the current government and previous administrations.
“We are not politicians; we are voters who support the government of the day,” Mrs. Ogiamen clarified. “Our focus is on promoting the welfare of market women, not politicking.”
Coordinators from the 18 local government areas of Edo State rallied behind Mrs. Ogiamen, passing a vote of confidence in her leadership and reaffirming their loyalty to the association’s authentic leadership.
