By The9jaTREND
His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpo, Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin Kingdom, has suspended indefinitely the Isikhuan royal praise singers for an alleged breach of palace rules and ancient tradition.
The group is accused of staging a traditional performance reserved exclusively for the Oba at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawuaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin, in Edo State.
Palace sources described the act as a violation of a longstanding Benin taboo.
Oba Ewuare II also stripped the group’s leader, Juliet Omogui, of her traditional title of Okao.
Omogui publicly admitted the allegation, which was captured in a viral video.
She has been directed to return the traditional headgear (Okuku) in her custody to the palace pending further instructions from the monarch.
The decision was announced by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency palace meeting on Sunday.
Members of the Isikhuan group were given the opportunity to explain their involvement. Chief Idah was 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.
The chiefs expressed dismay at what they called a height of disrespect to the Benin monarchy.
Chief Idah questioned why Chief Igbinedion allowed the performance in his honour, noting the Esama’s deep knowledge of Benin sacred customs and his prior vow to uphold them.
The Isikhuan also associated with Isekhian or Emehe palace functionaries traditionally perform praise songs reserved for the Oba during royal ceremonies.
Palace authorities view any unauthorized performance of these rites as a serious affront to the sacred order of the Benin Kingdom.