The Oba of Benin palace has intervened in alleged curious deaths at Edaiken (Uselu) market, Egor Local Government Area of Edo State, associated with roughshod on sacred ground during the crisis that rocked market Unions activities, which had been suspended by the State government.
The spiritual gesture by the revered Benin palace, is aimed at addressing the troubling issues of strange deaths and declining patronage at the market, shortly after a petition from the market’s leadership.
Consequently, the palace, mandated some Chiefs led by Emovon Ogbemudia, the Aghamioba of Benin to assess the situation and provide recommendations to restore peace and order at the market.
The delegation, includes Chief Eguavoen Bamawo (The Bamawo of Benin), Chief J. O. Ebose (Eson of Uselu), Chief Etinosa Omuemu (The Omuemu of Uselu), Victor Omoregie (Eguesigbon of Uselu), Comrade Osagioduwa Asemota (Youth Leader of Uselu Community), Eseosa Omoregbee (Secretary of Uselu Community), and Mrs. Ikpomwen, a trader at Uselu market.
Acting Chairman of Egor Local Government Council, Kelvin Ighodaro Eguakun, played host to the delegation from the palace at the sideline of the fact-finding mission,
hailed Oba Ewuare, the second — the guardian of culture and tradition.
In a social media post, the acting Local Government Council Chairmen who lauded the heartwarming display of affection by Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin for the overall well-being of all the people at home and in the diaspora, and pledged his support towards restoring harmony at the market.
But, Eguakun blamed the prolonged crises in Edaiken market stem largely from a few individuals who had clung to leadership roles for nearly two decades, defying state government directives to vacate their positions.
“I express my profound gratitude to His Royal Majesty for his deep concern and timely intervention.
“I shared that the prolonged crises in Edaiken market stem largely from a few individuals who have clung to leadership roles for nearly two decades, defying State government directives to vacate their positions.
“Despite efforts with the Edo State Government to disband all market associations and unions as part of a reform strategy, these individuals continue to operate underground, harassing genuine traders and fostering an atmosphere of unrest.
“I warmly welcomed the palace’s involvement, confident that the wisdom and authority of His Royal Majesty will bring lasting peace to the market.
“As loyal subjects, Egor Local Government stands firmly behind any directive from the Benin throne.
“I assured the delegation of our full cooperation and commitment to resolving this crisis for the benefit of our traders and Community”, according to him.
