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| Oba Ewuare II Takes Action Against Okhuoromi Chief Priest |
On May 15, 2025, Oba Ewuare II deposed Ovbokhan Igbinovia as Chief Priest of Okhuoromi Community in Edo State. The monarch took this action after a palace review found Igbinovia guilty of land grabbing and other abuses .
The decision was announced by Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin. He spoke to elders led by Odionwere Pa. Oghagbon Edosomwan. The elders now govern the community in the priest’s absence .
Palace chiefs Isaac Oyeoba and Uyi Okungbowa joined Idah at the palace. They told villagers any defiance would face law and ancestral wrath. This warning aimed to keep peace and order .
Allegations against Igbinovia included extortion and unauthorized demolition of homes. Victims said he and his agents forced land sales at below market value. This ran against Benin customs and laws .
Oba Ewuare II stated the throne does not back criminal acts under any guise. He urged the community to avoid violence and trust the palace process. He pledged justice for victims soon .
He also said palace chiefs will inspect and record damage in the community. He asked anyone with claims or evidence to send photos and videos to the palace office. This will aid fair redress .
Some community members praised the Oba’s move. They said it shows the throne can correct its own ranks. Others worry about future checks on local priests. They hope for clear rules soon.
Legal expert Mrs. Amara Eghosa said this action underscores respect for custom law. She said the palace acted within its rights. She noted it sets a strong precedent against abuse .
Chief Frank Irabor, BTC Secretary, denied aiding the deposed priest. He said palace records show no support from council members. He gave Igbinovia seven days to retract false claims .
Elders now face the task to heal the rifts Igbinovia caused. They must rebuild trust and restore lost lands to rightful owners. They plan town hall meetings next week for input.
Community youth leader Miss Ifeanyi Osas said they hope for swift justice. She urged victims to come forward. She said unity and dialogue will guide their next steps.
Some residents fear land titles may stay in limbo. They call for a clear plan on title reissuance. The palace said chiefs will survey and map claims soon.
A local historian, Dr. Efe Aigbomian, noted that deposing a priest is rare. He said it highlights the Oba’s role as moral guide. He praised the palace for swift action.
The Oba’s move draws attention across Edo State. Other communities now watch for similar reviews of their leaders. This could spark wider reforms in local leadership.
Opposition voices warn against palace overreach. They call for legal oversight. Some want state courts to back such decisions. They argue balance between custom and civil law is vital.
Scholars from the University of Benin plan a forum on this issue. They will explore links between tradition and modern rights. They hope to design guidelines that blend both systems.
Victims of the priest’s acts await compensation. The palace said it will follow custom law procedures. It will also involve state land offices to back claims.
Human rights advocate Mr. Nosa Eweka said victims need clear, speedy redress. He said the palace must protect powerless villagers. He urged transparent reporting of progress.
Ordinary villagers say they feel safer now. They said the Oba’s upright stand sends a strong warning to power abuse. They hope local faith and tradition return to respect.
Moving forward, the palace will publish a weekly update. It will report on investigations and title repairs. This aims to keep the process open and build trust.
The deposed priest’s supporters plan to appeal. They argue the palace lacked full evidence. They say they will seek civil court review. The palace said it will respect lawful processes.
This event marks a turning point for Okhuoromi. It shows the palace can act swiftly against its own. It also raises questions on how custom law adapts to modern rights.
Readers, what do you think of this action? Do you trust the palace process? Share your views below. Let’s keep the talk respectful and helpful.