The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba Ewuare II, on Tuesday received the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria and newly inaugurated market leaders of Edo State.
The event followed the installation of Mrs. Josephine Ehis Ibhaguezejele as the Iyeki of Edo State, ending more than 13 years of leadership vacuum in market administration across the state.
The absence of an Iyeki had created a gap in coordination among traders, with growing calls from various quarters for a leader to restore order, peace, and unity.
Chief Dr. Mujidat Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, inaugurated the new leadership during her visit to Benin City.
She was warmly received by Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani.
The state government hailed the initiative as a bold move to strengthen grassroots commerce and empower women, particularly in market communities.
READ ALSO: Edo Governor nominates three new commissioners
Shortly after the inauguration, Chief Tinubu-Ojo led the delegation to the palace of His Royal Majesty. The Oba, in the presence of his high chiefs, offered royal blessings and guidance to the newly inaugurated leaders.
He tasked one of the chiefs to educate them on their sacred roles as custodians of culture, stressing that traditional values tied to market life must remain aligned with palace directives.
In his remarks, Oba Ewuare II commended the Iyaloja-General and Edo State government for the initiative, describing it as a milestone in women’s empowerment and socio-cultural growth.
He urged the new leaders to uphold the dignity of their offices, foster unity among traders, and ensure market harmony.
Underscoring the importance of the visit, the monarch noted that he had excused himself from critical state and external engagements to personally receive the delegation.
The ceremony concluded with a group photograph, where the Oba posed with the Iyaloja-General, government officials, and the newly inaugurated Iyekis, marking a historic moment for the Benin Kingdom and Edo State.
PM Reporters.com
