Iyaloja: Edo market women back Oba of Benin

A group of market women in Benin, Edo State, have expressed solidarity with the Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II, over the heat generated by the installation of Iyaloja in the state.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Oba, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, who said this in a statement on Tuesday, noted that the women, who paid a visit to the Oba’s palace on Monday, commended the monarch for upholding Benin’s rich culture and tradition.

The market women’s position is coming on the heels of the installation of Pastor Josephine Ibhaguezejele as the Iyaloja of the state by the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the daughter of President Bola Tinubu.

The installation took place at the Government House in Benin last Tuesday, but during a visit to the Oba Ewuare II on the same day, the monarch told Tinubu-Ojo and her entourage that the concept of Iyaloja was alien to the Benin Kingdom.

Oba Ewuare II said that each market is headed by Iyeki, who has a special relationship with the palace and performs expected roles in the shrine located in every market.

He said, ”The concept of Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. In Benin, you are in the home of culture; we have our culture here. I have discussed this matter with my chiefs and those who are knowledgeable. Do you know the role of Iyeki in Benin culture? Every Iyeki has a special relationship with the palace. Are you aware of that? Do you know that every Iyeki has a cultural role to perform in every market?”

“The Oba does not interfere so long as Iyeki does what is expected of her in the shrine of a particular market on behalf of the Oba. We are not going to say much except to explain to you the concept of Iyeki in Benin.”

Speaking on behalf of the market women at the palace, Florence Ahunwan, said they were in agreement with Oba Ewuare for his defence of Edo heritage.

She said, “We are in the palace on a solidarity visit to the Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II, over the heat generated by the installation of Iyaloja in the state.

“His position on the matter is correct, and we commend our royal father for upholding Benin’s rich culture and tradition.”

Responding, the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, who was joined by other Palace Chiefs, acknowledged the comments made by the market women.

He assured the group that their message would be communicated to the Oba and cautioned them against violence while carrying out their businesses at the various markets.