The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, has indefinitely suspended the Isikhuan royal praise singers over an alleged breach of palace tradition.
The group was sanctioned for reportedly performing a sacred royal rendition at the residence of the Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, a few days ago.
According to the Benin Palace, the rendition is among the traditional rites reserved exclusively for the Oba of Benin and is not to be performed in honour of another individual.
The monarch also withdrew the traditional title of Okao from the leader of the group, Juliet Omogui, and directed her to return the traditional headgear known as “Okuku” to the palace pending further directives.
The sanctions were announced by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency meeting at the Benin Palace on Sunday.
Members of the Isikhuan group were invited to the meeting to explain their involvement in the controversial performance.
Addressing the gathering, Idah described the incident as a serious breach of Benin customs and palace traditions.
He stressed that the rendition in question was exclusively reserved for the Benin monarch and could not be performed for another person.
The palace chief expressed particular concern that the performance took place at the residence of Igbinedion, whom he described as a respected Benin chief with extensive knowledge of the kingdom’s customs.
“It is surprising that Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, who is well versed in the customs and traditions of the Benin Kingdom and has consistently pledged to uphold them, allowed such a performance to be staged in his honour,” Idah said.
Other palace chiefs, including Chief Ada Igbinovia, Eribo N’Ibiwe; Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos, Oshodi N’Ibiwe; and Chief Enoma Ogiesughe, Ogiesughe N’Ewaise, also condemned the incident.
They described the performance as disrespectful to the Benin monarchy and a violation of long-standing traditions of the kingdom.
During the emergency meeting, Omogui reportedly admitted that members of the Isikhuan group participated in the performance.
The palace said her admission was among the factors that informed the sanctions imposed on her and the group.
The Benin Palace subsequently ordered the indefinite suspension of the Isikhuan royal praise singers.
It added that the suspension would remain in effect until the Oba of Benin issues further directives.
