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Oba Ewuare II has rejected the introduction of the “Iyaloja” title in Edo State, stating that it is alien to Benin culture and traditions.
The traditional ruler cautioned Folashade Ojo-Tinubu, the daughter of the president, against using her title in Benin during a recent courtesy visit.
Ojo-Tinubu is nationally recognised as the Iyaloja-General of Nigerian market women, but Oba Ewuare says market women in Benin have the sole authority to choose their leaders, and no one, including outsiders, can override that process.
Claim: The title ‘Iyaloja’ is alien to Benin, and the designation does not exist in the ancient city’s culture.
Verification: Andy Egbon, a resident and editor in Benin City, confirmed the incident, which occurred near the palace during an attempted inauguration ceremony.
“Tinubu’s daughter visited Benin to inaugurate an ‘Iyaloja,’ but in Benin, we recognise the ‘Iyeki,’ meaning ‘market leader.’
“Each market has its own Iyeki, selected by traders and confirmed by the palace. The idea of a single ‘general’ Iyeki overseeing all markets is unacceptable.
“The inauguration took place at the Government House, with the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady representing Governor Monday Okpebholo.
“The Iyeki’s roles are both administrative and cultural, including responsibilities tied to market shrines. Thus, the imposition of the Iyaloja title was wholly rejected.”
Another resident, Jennifer Sekil, noted that market women supported the Oba’s rejection, emphasising adherence to the palace’s traditional system.
“The ‘Iyaloja’ title is of Yoruba origin and cannot be imposed in Benin land. Regardless of her status, cultural traditions must be respected. It is inappropriate for an outsider to dictate how a king governs his kingdom.”
In conclusion, online sources confirm that the decision followed Tinubu-Ojo’s attempt to install Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as the Iyaloja of all markets in Edo State.
The Oba emphasised that Benin operates under its traditional “Iyeki” system, where each market has its own leader, chosen by traders and confirmed by the palace, rooted in the kingdom’s cultural and spiritual framework.
Unlike the Yoruba-derived Iyaloja title, which implies a centralised market leader, the Iyeki system is decentralised.
The Oba’s rejection highlights the importance of preserving Benin’s cultural heritage against external influences.
