The Palace of the Oba of Benin has issued a firm statement against the introduction of the “Iyaloja” title into Edo State’s market system, asserting that it is alien to Benin culture. This declaration comes amidst a face-off with the Iyaloja-General, a position held by the daughter of the president, as she aims to establish this title in Benin.
The Oba of Benin Palace emphasized that the Iyaloja title could disrupt both peace and tradition in the region. This stance was articulated through a statement from the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) and authorized by His Royal Majesty, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II.
The Palace warned that the introduction of the Iyaloja concept, along with the increasing influence of political trade associations in local markets, poses a threat to Benin’s traditional market structure. They urged market women across Edo State to honor the traditional hierarchy governing market administration and to refrain from aligning with political figures who might exploit their influence.
Notably, the Palace highlighted that it was not consulted prior to the Iyaloja initiative’s introduction, suggesting that such consultation could have averted the current tensions.
The statement raised questions about the authenticity and motives behind importing the Iyaloja system into Edo, questioning why a title from other regions should suddenly be adopted in Benin markets.
In part, the statement read:
“While the Palace maintains its position that the Iyaloja concept is alien to the culture of Benin, the Palace also frowns at the use of trade associations to run open markets and to play partisan politics. These twin factors are antithetical and inimical to the essence of our market tradition in Benin culture.”
The Palace has observed that markets have become tools for partisan politicians and unscrupulous individuals, impacting the community negatively. Furthermore, they expressed concerns that the practice of using market associations for political gain has contributed to rising food prices, undermining the government’s efforts to stabilize costs.
The Palace concluded with a plea to market women and politicians to refrain from involving the Oba’s name in their political agendas, asserting that the current administration does not need the Iyaloja concept to validate its efforts. They reiterated their support for the state government while expressing confusion over the motives behind introducing this concept to Edo State.
