The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has indefinitely suspended a group known as the Isikhuan royal praise singers and stripped its leader, Juliet Omogui, of her traditional title, Okao, over an alleged breach of palace rules and Benin traditional customs.
The development was announced in a statement issued by Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin.
According to the statement, the group allegedly breached an ancient Benin taboo by staging a traditional performance reserved exclusively for the Oba at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom.
The monarch’s decision was conveyed by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency meeting held at the palace on Sunday. Members of the group were given an opportunity to explain their involvement and roles in the incident.
Chief Idah, alongside Chief Ada Igbinovia, Eribo N’Ibiwe; Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos, Oshodi N’Ibiwe; Chief Enoma Ogiesughe, Ogiesughe N’Ewaise; and other palace chiefs, expressed dismay over what they described as a serious act of disrespect to the Benin monarchy.
Chief Idah also questioned why Chief Igbinedion permitted the Isikhuan group to perform in his honour, given his understanding of Benin’s sacred customs and traditions and his commitment to upholding them.
The palace said Omogui publicly admitted to the allegation in a viral video circulating online.
Following the Oba’s directive, Omogui was ordered to return the traditional headgear, Okuku, in her custody to the palace pending further directives from the monarch.
The indefinite suspension of the group and the removal of its leader’s traditional title highlight the seriousness with which the Benin Palace regards the alleged breach of customs and traditions reserved for the monarch.
The palace is expected to issue further directives as it continues to uphold the traditional rules and protocols of the Benin Kingdom.
