By Jungle-Journalist.Com
Benin City — The leadership of market women across Edo State has thrown its full weight behind the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, declaring total loyalty to the revered monarch amid growing controversy over the Iyaloja (market leader) title in the state.
In a statement after a joint meeting of major market unions in Benin City, the traders reaffirmed that the authority to install or recognise an Iyaloja in the Benin Kingdom lies solely with the Palace of the Oba, not with politicians or government officials.
The women, speaking through a delegation led by prominent market leader Mrs. Aisosa Evbuomwan, condemned what they described as “attempts by political actors to usurp traditional prerogatives” for selfish gain.
“Our markets belong to the Oba. We were installed under the guidance of the Palace, and no one can change that. The Oba of Benin remains our father and spiritual leader, and we will continue to obey his directives,” the group declared.
The statement comes in the wake of reports that some government-aligned figures are attempting to float a parallel Iyaloja structure in defiance of the Benin Traditional Council’s authority. The move has sparked tension among traders and traditional institutions, with many describing it as a direct affront to Benin customs and the ancient stool.
Palace sources also confirmed that the Oba of Benin had earlier cautioned individuals and politicians against meddling in traditional titles and market affairs, warning that such interference could disrupt peace and order in the kingdom.
Political analysts say the endorsement from Edo’s market women further strengthens the Oba’s position and underscores the deep-rooted loyalty of the people to the Benin monarchy, one of Africa’s oldest and most respected traditional institutions.
As the statement concluded:
“We stand with our Oba, and we will resist any attempt to divide our markets or our kingdom. The Oba’s word is law in Benin land.”