• Benin Dukes
• Forgiveness
• Oba of Benin

BENIN KINGDOM’S SUSPENDED CHIEFS SEEK ROYAL PARDON FROM MONARCH

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  CapitalTimesNews / 1 week
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• 2 min read

Several of the 67 traditional chiefs suspended by the Benin Palace have formally appealed for forgiveness from His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II. The embattled dukes, known locally as Enigie, expressed remorse through a statement released Wednesday by Duke Victor Etinosa Oguigo of Ugoniyekikpoba district. The suspended chiefs described their predicament as “unthinkable rebellion against divine authority,” with Oguigo stating: “No sane person would dare oppose the living deity that our Oba represents in our lives.” Their suspension on March 7 followed allegations of insubordination and activities undermining the ancient kingdom’s traditional governance structure. Frank Irabor, Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council, had earlier announced the disciplinary action affecting chiefs across seven local government areas. The Edo State government reinforced the palace’s decision by revoking five previous executive orders and implementing a unified directive supporting traditional authority. State Information Commissioner Paul Ohonbamu characterized the chiefs’ alleged actions as “an unprecedented challenge to centuries-old Benin traditions.” However, the appealing faction of 40 chiefs maintained their innocence, asserting they never participated in any act of disloyalty. “We solemnly declare our continued allegiance to our revered monarch,” their statement read in part. “Like children seeking a parent’s mercy, we kneel before the throne begging for forgiveness and the chance to prove our devotion anew.” The chiefs expressed willingness to appear before the royal court to personally reaffirm their loyalty, noting their readiness to “answer the royal summons at any moment.” This development marks a significant moment in the ongoing preservation of Benin Kingdom’s ancient hierarchical traditions.