Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, has instructed traditional practitioners within the Edo South Senatorial District to initiate spiritual measures against those involved in banditry and violent crimes. The monarch issued this mandate on Tuesday during a palace gathering attended by traditional priests, priestesses, and native doctors.
This initiative coincides with the Edo state government’s recent decision to set up specialized courts focused on addressing kidnapping, armed robbery, and ritual killings to expedite justice. The Oba noted that his directive stems from divine guidance and the wishes of his royal ancestors, aiming to bolster the state’s security efforts. The traditionalists are tasked with conducting a week of prayers and rites, culminating in a ceremony at the palace on Thursday, July 2, where formal curses will be placed on offenders.
Emphasizing that criminal elements cannot succeed in Edo, the Oba called for a cessation of illegal activities across the region. Chief Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, the Akenuwa of Benin, reinforced the monarch’s position, confirming that the palace has increased its spiritual outreach and coordination efforts to combat the rising insecurity.
