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Benin monarch suspends royal praise singers over unauthorized performance at Igbinedion’s residence
The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, has suspended the Benin royal praise singers indefinitely, following an unauthorized performance of a sacred royal rendition at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin.
The Isikhuan royal praise singers, as they are called, allegedly breached some palace rules and Benin tradition, over a performance believed to be a sole reserve of the Benin monarch.
Juliet Omogui, the group’s leader was also stripped of her traditional title of Okao and ordered to return the traditional “Okuku” headgear to the palace.
Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazele of Benin, made known the decisions during an emergency meeting held at the Benin Palace on Sunday.
The Isikhuan group members were invited to explain their roles in the incident, with Idah condemning the group’s actions as a violation of Benin customs and palace traditions.
He said the rendition was reserved exclusively for the Oba of Benin, while expressing surprise at the Esama for allowing the performance.
“It is surprising that Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, who is well versed in the customs and traditions of the Benin Kingdom and has consistently pledged to uphold them, allowed such a performance to be staged in his honour,” he said.
Other palace chiefs, including Chief Ada Igbinovia, Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos, and Chief Enoma Ogiesughe also condemned the development which they considered an act of disrespect to the Benin monarchy and traditions.
Juliet Omogui also admitted to the group’s participation in the performance, with the palace stating that the group’s suspension remain in force until further directives from the Oba.
