Oba of Benin Must Be Respected: Benin People Reject Senate Bill Elevating Ooni and Sultan as Permanent Co-Chairmen

Oba of Benin Must Be Respected: Benin People Reject Senate Bill Elevating Ooni and Sultan as Permanent Co-Chairmen

The Benin people have long been subjected to systemic marginalization, facing exclusion from federal appointments and unfair treatment in external job opportunities. Our youths suffer rejection and bias, with their Benin identity becoming a liability. Enough is enough! The ongoing assault on our traditional institution, particularly the revered Godking HRM Oba Ewuare II, is a declaration of war against the Benin people.

The attempt to usurp the authority of our monarch, placing him below the Ooni of Ife and the Sultan of Sokoto, is unacceptable. We call on all Benin leaders and citizens to rise up, speak with one voice, and resist this affront to our heritage and dignity. United, we shall stand strong against this orchestrated war.

The Oba of Benin, being the paramount king in the South-South region, played a pivotal role in the creation of the Midwest region in 1963. It’s disheartening that any proposal for state creation would proceed without consulting the Oba of Benin. Furthermore, the plan to appoint the Ooni of Ife as permanent chairman is an affront not only to the Oba of Benin but also to the entire Benin community.

Signed:
Comr Osifo Patrick
New Edo wing