Edo State on High Alert: Obaseki’s Relentless Attack on Benin Kingdom’s Heritage Sparks Fury

In a brazen display of disdain, Governor Godwin Obaseki has intensified his public feud with the revered Benin Kingdom, leaving the state on edge. The Edo State High Court is set to resume hearing a contentious case between His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, and a group of disgruntled Enigies (Dukes), amidst heightened tensions.

The state government’s warning against disrupting court proceedings rings hollow, given Obaseki’s consistent interference in the kingdom’s affairs. His agenda to undermine the Oba’s authority is evident in his handling of the repatriated artifacts, which were meant for the Benin Royal Museum but are now housed in EMOWAA, bypassing the Oba’s role.

This blatant disregard for the Royal Court’s involvement has sparked outrage from the Oba, who condemned Obaseki’s tactics as duplicitous. The governor’s sealing off of the Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre, proposed as a temporary home for the artifacts, has left the center in neglect, symbolizing his contempt for the kingdom’s cultural heritage.

In a calculated move, Obaseki convened a meeting with selected Enigies from Edo South, led by Professor Greg Akenzua, granting them independence from the Oba and redirecting allocations previously directed to the Oba’s Palace. This move weakens the Oba’s influence and further erodes the kingdom’s authority.

Obaseki’s latest affront is the ban on Okaigheles, ancient institutions established by great Obas, instrumental in palace administration for centuries. By dismantling this structure, Obaseki continues his campaign to erode the Benin monarchy’s power and authority.

Rumors of the state government monitoring those attending court proceedings in solidarity with the palace have heightened tensions. This move confirms the belief that Obaseki will stop at nothing to desecrate the Great Benin Kingdom, a kingdom that holds the Oba as the representative of divine authority.

The people of Edo State must rise and stand with their Oba against this onslaught. It is time to hold Governor Obaseki accountable and protect the cultural heritage and dignity of the Benin Kingdom. The world watches, and history will judge those who stood by in silence while a great kingdom was undermined.”