
In a recent development, the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) has announced the suspension of five functionaries in the Benin Kingdom, citing their involvement in sacrilegious behavior contrary to Benin customs and traditions.
According to a statement released by the BTC and signed by the Iyase (Prime Minister) of Benin, Chief Sam Ugbe, the suspension was prompted by the functionaries' visit to the Ooni of Ife, during which they falsely represented themselves as emissaries of the Oba of Benin.
The statement identified the suspended individuals as Johnbull Igbinosun, Iduhonre (Ihogbe), S.E. Aigbiremwen, Efesieoghoba (Ogbelaka), along with two other Ogbelaka functionaries named Ogbeide Osagie and Osamudiame Edo.
During their visit to the Ooni of Ife, the functionaries purportedly proclaimed themselves as subjects of the Ooni and provided inaccurate and disjointed accounts of the historical connection between the Benin Royal Dynasty and the Ooni-ship of Ife.
While refraining from reiterating the well-established historical ties between the two thrones, the BTC urged the public to disregard the misleading narratives presented by the suspended individuals.
To provide clarity on the matter, the BTC directed the public to refer to the authoritative account of the connection between the Benin Royal Dynasty and the Ooni-ship of Ife as documented in the book titled "I Remain, Sir, Your Obedient Servant" authored by the late Oba Erediauwa, Oba of Benin.
Describing the conduct of the functionaries as inappropriate and sacrilegious, the BTC emphasized the gravity of their actions, which it deemed as disrespectful to traditional history and damaging to the reputation of Benin custom.
In accordance with the authority vested in the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, His Royal Majesty Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, as the Prescribed Authority over Benin Custom, the BTC announced the immediate suspension of the identified individuals from their roles as Benin traditional functionaries.
The general public has been advised to refrain from engaging with the suspended functionaries in any traditional capacity throughout the duration of their suspension.
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