Oba of Benin Mobilises Traditionalists Against Banditry in Edo

The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has called on traditional worshippers and custodians of indigenous spirituality across Edo South Senatorial District to intensify efforts against banditry and violent crimes through traditional rites and prayers.

The monarch gave the directive on Tuesday during a meeting with native doctors, priests and priestesses at his palace in Benin City, amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of the country.

Oba Ewuare II said the traditional institution must play its role in supporting government efforts to combat criminality, adding that the instruction was inspired by divine guidance and the mandate of royal ancestors.

He directed traditionalists to commence a week-long spiritual exercise aimed at seeking peace and security for the state, with the programme expected to culminate at the palace on July 2.

According to the monarch, the exercise would include traditional invocations against those involved in kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes, as well as individuals aiding or benefiting from such activities.

“The message is from the ancestors. Edo people, both at home and in the diaspora, should hear this,” the Oba said.

“The criminals know that God Almighty and our ancestors will not allow their evil to prevail in Edo,” he added.

The Benin monarch maintained that previous Obas had always stood against acts capable of threatening peace and stability, urging those involved in criminal activities to abandon their ways.

At the meeting, Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, the Akenuwa of Benin, reinforced the monarch’s position and encouraged traditional worshippers to remain steadfast in carrying out the assigned rites.

He disclosed that the palace had intensified consultations and coordination among traditional institutions as part of broader efforts to address insecurity.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Government announced plans to establish special courts to handle cases involving armed robbery, kidnapping, ritual-related offences and other serious crimes.

The government said the proposed courts would help speed up trials and ensure prompt dispensation of justice, while serving as a deterrent to criminal elements.

The twin initiatives by the palace and the state government come as authorities continue to explore both conventional and non-conventional approaches to tackling security challenges and restoring public confidence.