Oba Ewuare II: Mass Protests in Benin City Over Trial

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By Prince Osunde Oriakhi

Chaos, anger best describes the present situation in Benin City, Edo State capital.

This is as a result of the case brought before Justice P. A. Akhihiero, over the suspension of two Enigie (Dukes) by the suspended Prof. Gregory Akenzua and Edomwonyi Iduozee Ogiegbaen, Enogie of Evbo-Obanosa and Egbaen respectively.

The case was adjourned for hearing today by Justice P. A. Akhihiero of High Court 6.

However, protesters in their thousands throng to streets adjourning the Palace of Oba Ewuare II and all adjourning streets, including the Oba Ovoranmwen Square.

The chaotic situation caused by the protesters prevented lawyers and other litigants from accessing the court as the doors were blocked by human shield.

In suit No. B/290OS/2023 filed by their Counsel, Dr. Osagie Obayuwana, the claimants, Prof. Gregory Akenzua and Edomwonyi Iduozee Ogiegbaen, Enogie of Evbo-Obanosa and Egbaen respectively, are challenging the monarch’s authority under the law to suspend them as the Enogie (Duke) of their respective communities.

Prof Akenzua and Ogiegbaen are relying on the authority of the newly promoted parallel Local Government Traditional Rulers Council by Governor Godwin Obaseki, which has been blamed for the hostile relationship between the palace and two of the palace functionaries.