By Opeyemi Adelakun
The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku’Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has indefinitely suspended the Isikhuan royal praise singers following an alleged violation of Benin palace rules and traditional customs.
The monarch also revoked the traditional title of the group’s leader, Juliet Omogui, who served as Okao.
The disciplinary action followed a recent performance allegedly staged by the group at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, in Edo State.
According to a statement issued by the Oba’s Chief Press Secretary, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the performance involved a traditional practice regarded as exclusively reserved for the Oba.
The palace said Omogui had admitted to the allegation in a video that subsequently circulated on social media.
She was also directed to surrender the Okuku, a traditional headgear in her custody, to the palace pending further instructions from the monarch.
The decision was communicated by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency meeting held at the palace on Sunday.
Members of the Isikhuan group were reportedly given an opportunity to explain their individual involvement in the incident before the palace announced the disciplinary measures.
Chief Idah, alongside other palace chiefs, expressed displeasure over what they described as conduct that showed disregard for the Benin monarchy and its established traditions.
Among the chiefs present were Chief Ada Igbinovia, Eribo N’Ibiwe; Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos, Oshodi N’Ibiwe; and Chief Enoma Ogiesughe, Ogiesughe N’Ewaise.
The palace also questioned why Chief Igbinedion allowed the group to carry out the performance at his residence, given his longstanding knowledge of Benin customs and traditions.
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