The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has suspended the Isikhuan royal praise singers indefinitely for allegedly violating palace tradition by performing a sacred royal rendition at the residence of the Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion.
The performance, reportedly held a few days ago, was said to be one of the traditional rites reserved exclusively for the Benin monarch.
The Oba also stripped the group’s leader, Juliet Omogui, of her traditional title of Okao and directed her to return the traditional headgear, known as “Okuku” to the palace pending further directives.
The decisions were announced by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency meeting held at the Benin Palace yesterday, where members of the Isikhuan group were invited to explain their roles in the incident.
Speaking at the meeting, Idah said the group’s actions amounted to a serious violation of Benin customs and palace traditions.
He noted that the performance was reserved solely for the Oba of Benin and could not be rendered in honour of any other individual.
Idah expressed disappointment that the performance took place at the residence of Igbinedion, whom he described as a respected Benin chief with a deep understanding of the kingdom’s customs and traditions.
He said, “It is surprising that Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, who is well versed in the customs and traditions of the Benin Kingdom and has consistently pledged to uphold them, allowed such a performance to be staged in his honour.”
Also speaking, other palace chiefs, including Chief Ada Igbinovia (Eribo N’Ibiwe), Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos (Oshodi N’Ibiwe), and Chief Enoma Ogiesughe (Ogiesughe N’Ewaise), condemned the incident, describing it as an act of disrespect to the Benin monarchy and its long-standing traditions.
During the meeting, Juliet Omogui admitted that the group participated in the performance, a development that the palace said informed the sanctions imposed on her and the Isikhuan group.
The palace maintained that the suspension would remain in force until further directives are issued by the Oba of Benin.
