It was a moment of triumph for the Benin Kingdom when news broke that the full statutory rights of the revered Oba Ewuare II had been restored.
The people of Edo State, particularly in Benin City, had witnessed political shifts in recent years, including the creation of new traditional councils by the previous administration.
But for many, the actions taken by Governor Monday Okpebholo marked a return to tradition, respect, and cultural pride.
Statutory Rights For Oba of Benin
Governor Okpebholo’s decision to abolish the new councils and reaffirm the full rights of the Benin Monarch was more than just a political move—it was a restoration of heritage and dignity for the people of Benin.
“We must preserve the customs and traditions of our people, and I am committed to ensuring that the Oba’s role as the true custodian is respected and upheld,” Governor Okpebholo stated in his address.
The governor’s actions didn’t stop there. In another powerful gesture, he supported the Federal Government’s decision to return the looted Benin artefacts to the Oba’s palace—artefacts that had been stolen during the British colonial forces’ massacre in 1897.
For years, the ownership of these sacred treasures had been debated.
Now, under the leadership of Governor Okpebholo, the rightful custodianship of the Oba of Benin was firmly recognised, with the state backing a museum to house these artefacts in Benin.
The restoration of the Oba’s rights and the recognition of his role as the custodian of Benin’s culture were seen as essential steps in preserving the kingdom’s rich history for future generations.
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“The Oba of Benin is the father of our people, and these artefacts belong in the heart of our kingdom, under the care of our Oba,” Okpebholo added.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Sunday, the governor outlined the specific actions taken.
Respect For Customs And Traditions
Okpebholo abolished the new traditional councils in Edo South, created by the last administration, and restored the statutory financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council.
The governor also made it clear that his administration would not interfere in the internal affairs of the Benin Traditional Council.
“Our administration is committed to respecting the traditions of the Benin people and ensuring that the monarch’s rights are not only restored but upheld,” said Okpebholo.
The message was clear: Governor Okpebholo respected the customs and traditions of the Benin people, ensuring that the Oba’s role as custodian of their culture was reinforced.
Furthermore, the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre, which had been misused as a motor park under the previous administration, would be returned to its original purpose, adding to the respect for Benin’s history and traditions.
