Oba Ewuare II Reaffirms Iyeki’s Role, Dismisses Iyaloja Concept

The monarch of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has firmly rejected the concept of the Iyaloja, a proposed market leadership role presented by Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu. During a recent meeting, the Oba emphasized the traditional role of the Iyeki, the recognized market leader in the Benin Kingdom, stating that the Iyaloja is not a part of local customs.

Oba Ewuare II’s remarks came during a visit from Tinubu-Ojo, who intended to announce the inauguration of Pastor Josphine Ivbazebule as the Iyaloja for all markets in Edo State. The monarch made it clear that the role of Iyaloja is foreign to the cultural framework of Benin, asserting that the Iyeki holds significant responsibilities, including a direct connection to the palace and specific ceremonial duties within each market’s shrine.

“Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. In Benin, you are in the home of culture; we have our culture here,” Oba Ewuare stated. He explained that the Iyeki’s role encompasses not just overseeing market activities but also performing essential cultural functions on behalf of the Oba.

The discussion included insights from Chief Osaro Idah, who elaborated on the independence of each Iyeki across various markets, such as the Oba Market and Ogiso Market. “The traders select their leaders from within the market,” he said. This independence means that each Iyeki is responsible for their respective market without interference from others.

Oba Ewuare further clarified that the Iyeki must be confirmed by the palace after being chosen by market women. This process reinforces the importance of local traditions and the unique cultural identity of the Benin Kingdom. “There are certain shrines inhabited in all the markets. They play certain roles on behalf of the palace,” he noted.

The monarch expressed a desire for clarity regarding the traditional role of the Iyeki, emphasizing that this position is deeply rooted in the community’s cultural practices and is not interchangeable with the Iyaloja concept. He stated, “No one has the right to control the other in another market,” underscoring the distinct responsibilities assigned to each Iyeki.

This meeting highlights the ongoing respect for cultural heritage within the Benin Kingdom, as well as the monarch’s commitment to preserving traditional practices in the face of modern influences. Oba Ewuare’s stance reinforces the importance of local governance structures that reflect the cultural values and customs of the Benin people.

As the conversation surrounding market leadership continues, the Oba’s reaffirmation of the Iyeki’s role marks a significant moment in the preservation of Benin’s cultural identity.