Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has annulled the traditional councils established by his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, in the Edo South Senatorial District. He also reinstated the financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) and directed the restoration of the pre-existing structure before the creation of the now-abolished councils.
Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, announced the decisions in a statement issued on Sunday in Benin City. The governor also affirmed compliance with the Federal Government’s directive to restore the statutory rights of the Oba of Benin over ancient artefacts looted during the 1897 Benin massacre by British colonial forces.
The statement described the measures as part of the administration’s efforts to correct perceived missteps of the previous government and foster a harmonious relationship between the state and its people.
Governor Okpebholo further revoked the decision of the previous administration to rescind the concession of the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre. He committed to refurbishing the facility for its intended purpose as a cultural landmark.
“This administration hereby abolishes the new traditional councils in Edo South, created by the last administration,” the statement read. “Governor Okpebholo has restored the statutory financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) and has ordered that the status quo before the creation of the now-abolished councils be maintained.”
In addition, the governor reaffirmed the state’s support for building the Benin Royal Museum to house repatriated artefacts, distancing the administration from the Museum of West African Art (MOWA) initiative championed by the former government.
Governor Okpebholo expressed unwavering respect for the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, as the custodian of Benin’s rich cultural heritage. He pledged his administration’s support for the monarch’s role as the sole owner of the returned Benin artefacts, in line with the Federal Government’s recognition of the Oba’s authority over the repatriated items.
“The Oba of Benin, as the father of all Benin people, is the sole custodian of their customs and traditions,” the statement continued. “My administration respects the customs and traditions of the land and hereby restores the statutory rights of the Oba of Benin as the true custodian of the returned Benin artefacts.”
Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to avoiding interference in the affairs of the Benin Traditional Council, emphasizing respect for the cultural and historical significance of traditional institutions.
By restoring the rights of the Oba and reversing contentious policies of the past administration, Governor Okpebholo seeks to strengthen ties between the government and traditional authorities while preserving the cultural legacy of the Benin Kingdom.
I think the governor made the right call. Traditional councils can be outdated – let the Oba of Benin shine!
I dont get why people are so obsessed with traditional councils. Lets focus on real issues like education and healthcare!
I think the governor should have consulted with the people before making such a big decision. What do you all think?
I think the Governor made the right call. Tradition should always be respected, but progress should not be hindered.
This move by the Edo Governor seems like a step backwards. Traditional councils can bring valuable perspectives and support to local governance.
I dont get why anyone would abolish traditional councils. Let the Obas do their thing, its part of our culture!
Honestly, I think the traditional councils were necessary for progress. Why abolish them? Seems like a step backward. #ControversialOpinion
I dont get why people are so obsessed with traditional councils. Lets focus on real issues like education and healthcare!
I think the governor made the right call! Traditional councils can be divisive. Lets focus on unity and progress.
Traditional councils preserve culture and history. Unity doesnt mean erasing diversity.
I dont get why they had to abolish the new councils. Seems like a step backward. Whats the real motive behind this move?
I dont get why everyones so hyped about this. Traditional councils or not, lets focus on real issues.
I dont get why people are so hyped about traditional councils. Lets focus on real issues like education and healthcare!
I think the Edo Governor made the right call. Traditional councils can sometimes do more harm than good. Time for a change!
I think the Governor made the right call. Traditional councils can be outdated. Lets move with the times!
I dont get why everyone is hyped about this. Traditional councils or not, does it really change anything for the people?
I dont get why the Edo Governor would abolish the new traditional councils. Seems like a step backwards to me.
You clearly dont understand the complexities of traditional governance. Progress doesnt always look how we expect.
I think the Governor made the right call. Traditional councils can sometimes do more harm than good. Let the Obas lead!
I think the Governor made a smart move by abolishing the councils. Its time to focus on empowering the Oba of Benin.
Why abolish traditional councils? Lets embrace change and evolve with the times. The Oba of Benin deserves respect and recognition.
I dont get why anyone would want to mess with traditional councils. Leave the Obas alone! #RespectHistory #HandsOffTradition
I think the Governor made the right call. Tradition should be respected, not manipulated for political gain. Good move!
I think the Governor made the right call. Traditional councils can sometimes create division and conflict within communities. Good move!
Traditional councils preserve culture and unity. Governors decision may disrupt community harmony. Consider broader perspectives.
I think the Governor made the right call. Tradition should be respected, but progress is important too. Its a delicate balance.
I think the Governor made the right call. Traditional councils can be divisive. Lets focus on unity and progress!
I think the Governor made the right call. Traditional councils can be divisive. Lets focus on unity and progress.
Respecting tradition is essential for unity. Dont dismiss cultural values for the sake of progress.
I think the Edo Governor made the right move. Traditional councils can be outdated and oppressive. Good on him for restoring the Obas power!
I think the Governor should have consulted with the people before making such a decision. What do you all think?