In a firm and historic pronouncement, the Benin Traditional Council has drawn a clear line against political interference in Edo’s traditional market system — declaring that there is no such title as “Iyeki-General” or “Iyaloja” within the Benin Kingdom.
The official statement, released from the revered Oba’s Palace, emphasizes that Edo’s traditional market institutions remain under the spiritual and administrative authority of the Oba of Benin — not under any politically influenced appointments.
The statement was jointly signed by respected palace chiefs, including:
- Chief David Edebiri (Esogban of Benin)
- Chief Edionwe Oliha (Oliha of Benin)
- Chief Osaro Ihama (Obasogie of Benin)
According to the palace, all market priestesses (Iyeki) are autonomous in their roles and answer directly to the Oba of Benin — the custodian of the land and its sacred traditions.
The council’s reaction comes amid circulating reports that Chief (Mrs.) Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, was allegedly planning to install an “Iyeki-General” in Edo State.
The palace described such a move as a direct violation of Benin customs, warning that Edo’s traditional institutions are not political playgrounds.
“The market system in Benin Kingdom is a sacred institution governed by customs handed down for centuries. Attempts to impose modern political titles such as ‘Iyeki-General’ or ‘Iyaloja’ are alien to our tradition,” the statement read.
In Benin tradition, no market can exist without the Oba’s royal approval.
Each market is established with a sacred altar provided by the Oba himself, serving as spiritual protection for the traders and community.
The Iyeki (Mother of the Market) acts as custodian of this shrine — ensuring peace, order, and spiritual well-being within the marketplace.
This sacred role cannot be politicized or merged into any modern political structure.
At FaceToface TV, this declaration underscores the importance of respecting traditional boundaries and preserving cultural heritage in the face of modern political pressures.
The Oba of Benin’s palace has once again demonstrated leadership and cultural integrity by safeguarding Edo’s ancient institutions from external interference.
The message is loud and clear:
🗣️ Tradition is not politics — and in Benin Kingdom, culture still reigns supreme.
Do you agree with the Oba’s stand that traditional institutions should remain sacred and untouched by politics?
Share your thoughts in the comments section below 👇
