His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, has suspended the Isikhuan royal praise singers indefinitely over an alleged breach of palace rules and tradition.
The group allegedly breached an ancient Benin taboo a few days ago by staging a traditional performance—one exclusively reserved for the Oba—at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawuaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin in Edo State.
Oba Ewuare also stripped the leader of the Isikhuan group, Juliet Omogui, of her traditional title, Okao.
Omogui publicly admitted to the allegation which also captured in a viral video on the internet, and mandated to return the traditional headgear (Okuku) in her custody to the palace, pending further directives by the Oba.
The Benin monarch’s decision was conveyed by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency meeting at the palace on Sunday, where members of the group were given the opportunity to explain their involvement and their roles in the act.
Chief Idah, joined by Chief Ada Igbinovia (Eribo N’ Ibiwe), Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos (Oshodi N’ Ibiwe), Chief Enoma Ogiesughe (Ogiesughe N’ Ewaise), and other palace chiefs, expressed dismay over the height of disrespect to the Benin monarchy.
Chief Idah, wondered why Chief Igbinedion permitted the Isikhuan group to perform in his honour, given his deep understanding of Benin’s sacred customs and tradition, which he had vowed to uphold.
