Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, directs all the market women to elect new leaders within two weeks, in a bid to restore perfect order across Edo South, Nigeria.
The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has brought an end to a long-running leadership crisis that divided market women across the seven local government areas of Edo South Senatorial District.
The resolution followed a verification exercise held at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City, where the monarch intervened personally to settle disputes over the leadership of several markets, including the prominent Oba Market in Oredo Local Government Area.
Two members of the Benin royal family, Princess Judith Oshodin and Princess Osarogie Rosemary Osagie, had both claimed the title of Iyeki (leader) of Oba Market. After reviewing the matter, Oba Ewuare II ruled that both women were automatically disqualified from holding the position. The same ruling applied to other markets where similar disputes had arisen.
Delivering the monarch’s message, Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin, told more than 55 market leaders gathered at the palace that the Oba’s decision was final and aimed at restoring peace and integrity to traditional market leadership. The meeting was moderated by Frank Irabor, Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC).
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Irabor also clarified recent public statements issued by the BTC, noting that they were authorized by the Oba to address misconceptions surrounding the leadership disputes.
As part of the resolution, the monarch directed market women in the affected areas to conduct fresh elections and submit the names of their chosen leaders to the palace within two weeks for approval. The directive, he said, was intended to ensure fairness, transparency, and stability across all markets in Edo South.
Market leaders whose positions were uncontested were asked to continue overseeing their jurisdictions ahead of the necessary traditional rites required for formal recognition. The Oba also offered prayers and blessings for peace, prosperity, and unity in the markets.
Following the announcement, the palace courtyard erupted in cheers and chants of solidarity as market leaders and traders expressed gratitude to the Oba for his decisive intervention.
The Oba’s action is the latest in a series of efforts by the Benin monarchy to uphold traditional order and resolve conflicts through dialogue, emphasizing the enduring role of the palace as a stabilizing force in Edo State’s communal and economic life.
