The Oba of Benin has rejected the installation of an Iyaloja in Edo by President Tinubu’s daughter, sparking protests and cultural debate over market leadership.
There is growing unease in Edo State following the installation of Pastor Josephine Ibhaguezejele as Iyaloja by Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu, a move the Oba of Benin has rejected as contrary to Benin culture.
The ceremony took place Tuesday at the Government House, Benin. However, during a courtesy visit two days later, Oba Ewuare II told Tinubu-Ojo that the position of Iyaloja does not exist in Benin tradition.
“The concept of Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. Every market is headed by an Iyeki, who has a special relationship with the palace and performs cultural roles,” the monarch said.
Market women had earlier protested Ibhaguezejele’s appointment, insisting that only a Benin woman should lead them. Cultural analyst Patrick Osadalor described the installation as “an exercise in futility,” noting that without palace backing, the Iyaloja cannot function.
Some residents, however, argued that Tinubu-Ojo’s appointee could still play a coordinating role, particularly in Edo Central and Edo North.