Obaseki’s relentless attack on Benin kingdom’s heritage sparks fury – TrendyNewsReporters

In a brazen display of disdain, Governor Godwin Obaseki has escalated his public feud with the revered kingdom of Benin, leaving the state in turmoil. 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), amid heightened tensions.

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

This blatant disregard for the involvement of the Royal Court sparked outrage from the Oba, who condemned Obaseki’s tactics as duplicitous. The governor’s closure of the Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre, proposed as a temporary home for the artefacts, left the centre in a state of neglect, symbolising his disregard for the kingdom’s cultural heritage.

In a calculated move, Obaseki has called a meeting with the selected Enigies of 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 weakens the kingdom’s authority.

Obaseki’s latest affront is the banning of Okaigheles, ancient institutions founded by great Obas, who have been instrumental in the administration of the palace for centuries. By dismantling this structure, Obaseki continues his campaign to erode the power and authority of the Benin monarchy.

Rumours that the state government is monitoring those attending court hearings in solidarity with the palace have increased tensions. This move confirms the belief that Obaseki will stop at nothing to desecrate the Great Kingdom of Benin, a kingdom that considers the Oba to be the representative of divine authority.

The people of Edo State must rise up 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 remained silent while a great kingdom was undermined.”