Oba Ewuare II has rejected the Iyaloja concept in Edo, affirming the Iyeki as the only recognised traditional market leader in Benin.
The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has dismissed the introduction of the Iyaloja title in Edo markets, insisting that the palace-backed Iyeki remains the traditional market leader in the Benin Kingdom.
The monarch made the declaration when Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu and Iyaloja General, visited him to inaugurate Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as Iyaloja of all markets in Edo State. Oba Ewuare, however, said the Iyaloja concept was foreign to Benin tradition.
“Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. In Benin, you are in the home of culture, we have our culture here,” the Oba said, stressing that the Iyeki is chosen by traders and confirmed by the palace. He added that the Iyeki performs cultural and spiritual duties in shrines located within markets.
Chief Osaro Idah further explained that each market’s Iyeki operates independently, noting that the concept of a “general Iyeki” was alien to Benin customs.