Oba of Benin warns against politicization of Edo Markets, reaffirms stance on Iyaloja Concept

THE Benin Traditional Council, under the authority of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, the Oba of Benin, has issued a firm public warning rejecting the introduction of the Iyaloja, market leader concept into Edo State, describing it as alien to Benin culture and capable of distorting the state’s centuries-old market system.

 

In an official statement released from the Omo N’Oba’s Palace on Tuesday, the Council also condemned the use of market associations for partisan politics, stating that such practices are “antithetical and inimical” to Benin’s traditional values and have become a tool for manipulation by political interests, reports Realnews.

 

“The Palace maintains its position that the Iyaloja concept is alien to the culture of Benin,” the statement declared. “In Benin, there is nothing like Iyeki General, which this Iyaloja concept seems to imply. Every Iyeki is independent of each other and is culturally, spiritually, and religiously tied to the Palace.”

 

Palace Reaffirms Traditional Process for Market Leadership

The Benin Palace reiterated that Iyeki (market leader) remains the only legitimate and recognized authority in Benin markets. According to tradition, Iyeki is chosen by the market women, brought before the Oba for confirmation, and installed following royal approval.

 

“The Palace never chooses anybody as Iyeki,” the statement clarified. “It is the market women that do that. Every Iyeki has a spiritual function she performs for the Palace and for the well-being of the market.”

 

The Council warned that any attempt to politicize or alter this sacred process could lead to a “breach of peace,” urging government authorities to respect and preserve the integrity of Benin’s traditional system.

 

Palace Blames Politicians, Warns Market Women

Expressing disappointment over the increasing politicization of Edo markets, the Palace accused some politicians and market associations of using the market system as a “veritable tool” for selfish interests.

 

“Our markets have become a veritable tool in the hands of partisan politicians and unscrupulous individuals,” the statement noted. “This has contributed immensely to the rise in food prices, thereby affecting the efforts of Mr. President to bring food prices down.”

 

The Oba recalled how the Palace had previously cautioned some market leaders—including the former leader, Blacky Ogiemien—against using market associations for partisan purposes. Despite being advised to focus on the welfare of market women and uphold cultural integrity, the statement said, such warnings were ignored.

 

Citing a Benin proverb — “uvun re rhan iramwen elaro” (if there is no hole in a tree, deadly insects cannot find their way in) — the Palace noted that the misconduct of some Iyekis had created room for external interference. It advised current market leaders to “learn from past mistakes” and realign themselves with the Palace’s expectations.

 

Palace Commends Okpebholo, Tinubu

Despite its stern warning, the Benin Traditional Council commended Edo State Governor, His Excellency Monday Okpebholo (popularly known as Akpakomiza), and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their leadership and developmental efforts.

 

“This administration is doing wonderfully well for everyone and does not need the Iyaloja concept to guarantee anything,” the Palace said. “Governor Okpebholo has taken His Royal Majesty as his father, and the Oba has reciprocated by taking him as a son. Akpakomiza plus Ewuare N’Ogidigan is a divine blessing to Edo State.”

 

The statement reaffirmed the Palace’s continued support for both the state and federal governments, urging them not to be distracted by “the shenanigans of market politics” but to focus on their “divine work” for the people.

 

Palace Questions Motives Behind Iyaloja Concept

The Oba’s Palace questioned the motive behind the introduction of the Iyaloja concept in Edo, calling on its promoters to clarify whether it is a national or regional initiative.

 

“We do not know the aim of this Iyaloja concept being introduced to Edo State,” the Palace queried. “If it is a national thing, then Iyaloja of Lagos—or Nigeria—must extend this concept to other states before we can believe its authenticity. Can an Edo woman be made the Iyaloja of Lagos or of Nigeria?”

 

Market Leaders Summoned for Clarification

Concluding the statement, the Benin Traditional Council announced that all Iyekis of every market across Edo State have been summoned to appear before the Oba of Benin at the Palace on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 12 noon, for further clarification and instruction.

 

The announcement was jointly signed by: Chief Norense Ozigbo-Esere, Osuma of Benin, Chief Edionwe Oliha, Oliha of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, Obazelu of Benin, Chief Okunoghae Edomwandagbon, Ine of Benin, Chief Ada Igbinovia Eribo of Benin and Frank Irabor, Secretary, Benin Traditional Council.