In a significant move to uphold traditional values and address community grievances, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, has deposed Ovbokhan Igbinovia from his position as the traditional Chief Priest (Ohen) of Okhuoromi Community in Oredo Local Government Area.
The deposition, announced on Thursday, follows a review of serious allegations against Igbinovia, including land grabbing, extortion, and unauthorized property demolition.
According to palace officials, Igbinovia’s actions were in clear violation of Benin customs and traditions. Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin, formally conveyed the Oba’s decision to the elders of Okhuoromi, led by their Odionwere (village head), Pa. Oghagbon Edosomwan, who has been entrusted with administering the area on behalf of the Oba.
The announcement took place at the Oba Palace in Benin, where Chief Idah, accompanied by other Palace Chiefs including Isaac Oyeoba (Oyeoba of Benin) and Chief Uyi Okungbowa (Ogua of Benin), addressed the Okhuoromi elders and victims who claimed to have suffered from land grabbing and property demolition allegedly orchestrated by Igbinovia.
“Anyone who contravenes the verdict will incur the wrath of the law and ancestors,” Chief Idah stated, emphasizing the seriousness with which the palace views the matter.
Oba Ewuare II has made it clear that the Benin throne strongly condemns lawlessness and criminality. “The Benin throne does not support acts of lawlessness and criminality under any guise,” he stated, firmly distancing the palace from the alleged sacrilege. He further urged the people of Okhuoromi to remain peaceful and avoid any acts of violence.
Addressing the victims of alleged extortion and land grabbing, Oba Ewuare II assured them that justice would be served. “Justice will be served in due course,” he affirmed. Palace chiefs have been assigned to conduct a thorough investigation and assess the extent of the damage within the community.
The Oba has called upon individuals with claims related to the issues in Okhuoromi to formally submit their complaints, along with any supporting pictorial or video evidence, to the designated authorities for review. This proactive step underscores the Oba’s commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent resolution to the grievances within the community. The deposition of the Chief Priest and the subsequent investigation signal a strong stance by the Oba of Benin against corruption and abuse of power within traditional institutions.
