The Benin Traditional Council has issued a comprehensive clarification regarding the hierarchical structure of the traditional institution within the Benin Kingdom. In a statement released by its solicitors, Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN, and Prof. Edoba Omoregie, SAN, the Council emphasized the exclusive role of the Oba of Benin as the sole traditional ruler across the seven local government areas constituting the Edo South Senatorial District, which encompasses the Benin Kingdom.
The statement outlined the specific local governments within the Edo South Senatorial District, which include Oredo, Egor, Ikpoba-Okha, Ovia South West, Ovia North East, Orhionmwon, and Uhunmwonde local government areas of Edo State.
The clarification from the Benin Traditional Council aims to rectify misconceptions surrounding the traditional hierarchy of the Benin Kingdom. According to the Council, the Oba of Benin holds the esteemed position of the sole traditional ruler in the entirety of the Edo South Senatorial District, leaving no room for ambiguity.
Furthermore, the statement delineated the roles and classifications of other traditional title holders in the mentioned seven local government areas. The Council affirmed that these title holders, including the Enigie, are chiefs appointed by the Oba of Benin and do not possess the status of traditional rulers.
The Enigie, specifically mentioned in the statement, represent the Oba of Benin within their respective communities or domains. They function as channels of communication between the Oba and these regions but remain subordinate to the Oba of Benin in the traditional hierarchy.
The Benin Traditional Council urged the general public to adhere to this accurate portrayal of the traditional structure within the Benin Kingdom and disregard any misinformation to the contrary. The Council’s assertion is supported by Benin Customary Law and the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict 1979, as applicable in Edo State.
This clarification serves as a reminder that the traditional hierarchy of the Benin Kingdom is well-established and defined by both existing laws and cultural norms. The Benin Traditional Council asserted that the Oba of Benin holds a distinct and exclusive role as the traditional ruler in the Edo South Senatorial District, reinforcing the unique heritage and governance of the kingdom.