Oba Of Benin Suspends Enigie

The Benin Traditional Council (BTC) has officially suspended 67 Enigie (traditional rulers) in the Benin Kingdom due to allegations of anti-palace and rebellious activities against His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, and the revered traditional institution.

Reasons Behind the Suspension

In a statement issued in Benin City on Friday, BTC Secretary Frank Irabor confirmed the suspension, stating that it was a necessary action taken by the Oba to uphold the integrity of the kingdom’s leadership structure.

“This decision was made by Oba Ewuare II due to their alleged anti-palace and rebellious activities against the Oba of Benin and the traditional institution,” Irabor emphasized.

An official document listing the names of the suspended Enigie has been released for public records and further administrative procedures.

Legal Challenge by Suspended Enigie

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some of the affected Enigie, including notable figures such as Prof. Gregory Akenzua and Edomwonyi Ogiegbaen, had previously contested their suspension in a Benin High Court. They argued that, under the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Law, the Oba of Benin does not have the jurisdiction to suspend them.

Traditional Institutions and Governance Conflicts

This development sheds light on the complexities surrounding traditional authority and its relationship with contemporary governance frameworks. The ongoing legal dispute further underscores the evolving dynamics between monarchy, customary leadership, and legal statutes.

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