Oba of Benin suspends Isikhuan praise singers over ‘breach of palace tradition’

The Oba of Benin, His Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku’Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has indefinitely suspended members of the Isikhuan royal praise singers over an alleged breach of palace rules and Benin traditional customs.

The suspension followed an alleged violation of an ancient Benin taboo by the group, which reportedly staged a traditional performance said to be exclusively reserved for the Oba at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, in Edo State.

The monarch also stripped the leader of the Isikhuan group, Juliet Omogui, of her traditional title, Okao, following the alleged breach.

Oba strips group leader of traditional title

In a statement issued by the Oba’s Chief Press Secretary, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Omogui was said to have publicly admitted to the allegation in a video that circulated widely on social media.

The statement said the group’s leader was also directed to return the traditional headgear, known as Okuku, which was in her custody, to the palace pending further directives from the monarch.

The decision was conveyed by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency meeting held at the palace on Sunday.

Group members summoned to palace

Members of the Isikhuan group were reportedly given an opportunity to explain their individual involvement and roles in the incident during the emergency meeting.

Chief Idah, alongside other palace chiefs, expressed displeasure over what they described as an act of disrespect towards the Benin monarchy.

Those present included Chief Ada Igbinovia, Eribo N’Ibiwe; Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos, Oshodi N’Ibiwe; and Chief Enoma Ogiesughe, Ogiesughe N’Ewaise, among other palace chiefs.

The chiefs reportedly emphasised the importance of observing established Benin customs and traditions, particularly those relating to activities regarded as exclusive to the monarch.

Palace questions Igbinedion’s role

Chief Idah also questioned why Chief Igbinedion permitted the Isikhuan group to perform the traditional act in his honour despite his knowledge of Benin’s sacred customs and traditions.

According to the statement, the palace chief noted that Igbinedion had previously demonstrated his commitment to upholding the customs and traditions of the Benin Kingdom.

The incident has consequently drawn the attention of the palace, with the monarch ordering the indefinite suspension of the group pending further directives.

The palace’s action underscores the importance attached to traditional protocols and practices within the Benin Kingdom, particularly those concerning ceremonies and performances reserved for the Oba.