The Digest:
The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has firmly rejected an attempt by President Tinubu’s daughter, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, to install an “Iyaloja of all Edo markets,” declaring the concept alien to Benin tradition. The monarch emphasized that each market in the kingdom has its own independent Iyeki (leader) appointed through traditional processes, stating unequivocally that “no one has the right to control another in a different market.”
Key Points:
- Oba of Benin rejected Folashade Tinubu-Ojo’s attempt to appoint an “Iyaloja of Edo markets.”
- The monarch declared the Iyaloja concept “alien to Benin culture.”
- He explained that each Benin market has independent Iyeki leaders appointed traditionally.
- Market women had previously protested against the imposition of an external leader.
- The Oba’s chief detailed how Iyeki leaders perform cultural roles for the palace.
- This marks the second attempt by Tinubu’s daughter to extend her market influence to Edo.
- The palace’s stance affirms the sovereignty of Benin's traditional institutions.
Sources: Nigerian Tribune
