The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has appointed Festus Osagie Aiyeki, the Enogie of Iguogie, to take over the administration of the neighbouring Evbolekpen community in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State.

This directive comes after the indefinite suspension of the Enogie of Evbolekpen, Chief Enabulele Obanosa, who, along with others, was accused of instigating a rebellion against the authority of the Oba. The Oba’s decision is aimed at maintaining order and ensuring that traditional leadership remains loyal to the revered Benin throne.

The directive was formally conveyed on Wednesday at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City by Chief Stanley Obamwonyi, the Esere of Benin, during a meeting with village elders from the affected communities.

Aiyeki, who currently oversees the affairs of Iguogie, Igue-Otor, Igue-Edobor, and Evboro villages, has now been entrusted with the additional responsibility of managing Evbolekpen. He is expected to work closely with the elders of the community, particularly its Odionwere (village head), Pa. Gabriel Ukhure, to ensure smooth governance and adherence to the customs of the Benin Kingdom.

Chief Obamwonyi reaffirmed the decision of the Oba, stating, “You are aware that the Enogie of Evbolekpen has been suspended by the Oba. Since Iguogie Dukedom is nearby, Oba Ewuare has instructed us to inform you that, from this day forward, the Enogie of Iguogie will oversee Evbolekpen on his behalf.”

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He also urged Aiyeki to discharge his duties responsibly, maintain peace, and ensure that Evbolekpen remains aligned with the traditions and leadership of the Benin Kingdom. Additionally, he cautioned against any unlawful activities that could threaten the stability of the community.

Chief Isaac Aghafua Oyeoba, the Oyeoba of Benin, further clarified that Aiyeki was not merely an Okao (District Head) but an Enogie. He emphasized that Aiyeki had been entrusted with this expanded role due to his steadfast loyalty to the Oba and his refusal to align with the suspended Enigie who were found to be disloyal to the Palace.

In response, the Enogie of Iguogie, Festus Osagie Aiyeki, expressed his deep appreciation for the trust placed in him by the Oba of Benin. He assured the Palace of his commitment to upholding the customs and authority of the Benin Kingdom while working towards the progress and development of all communities under his jurisdiction.

The Odionwere of Evbolekpen, Pa Gabriel Ukhure, speaking on behalf of the elders, pledged full compliance with the Oba’s decision. He expressed gratitude to the monarch for his swift intervention in the community’s affairs and vowed to work closely with Aiyeki to foster peace and development in Evbolekpen.

This move by the Oba of Benin underscores his dedication to preserving order, upholding the authority of the traditional institution, and ensuring that the Benin Kingdom remains united under his leadership.

Crediblenewsng.com