Favour Percy-Idubor/Benin
Oba of Benin, Ewuare II has resolved the protracted Edo market women leadership crisis that had plagued markets across the seven local government areas that make up Edo South Senatorial district.
According to a statement by Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Chief Press Secretary to Oba of Benin, the verification exercise was held on Thursday evening at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City, Edo State capital, where two Benin Royal family members had laid claim to the same position of leader (Iyeki) at Oba market and were caught between opposing sides of the struggle. Princess (Mrs.) Judith Oshodin and Princess (Mrs.) Osarogie Rosemary Osagie —were both disqualified automatically from vying for the leadership position at Oba market in Oredo Local Government Area of the state by the Benin monarch and other markets where there was a leadership tussle.
Oba Ewuare’s message to over 55 market leaders in Benin was conveyed by Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin at the meeting, moderated by the Secretary, Benin Traditional Council, Frank Irabor.
Irabor also cleared certain misconceptions that were explained in a recent public announcement by the Benin Traditional Council, issued on the authority of the Oba regarding the leadership tussle in the markets.
During the roll call of Benin markets where leadership tussle existed, while market women in the affected areas were directed by the Oba to elect their own leaders and present the names of their chosen leaders to the palace for consideration and approval by the Oba within two weeks as part of effort towards restoring sanity in various markets.
Consequently, shortlisted market leaders were directed to oversee their areas of jurisdiction, ahead of the necessary traditional rites in line with the tradition, while the Oba pronounced his blessings on the markets.
Chants of solidarity songs by market leaders rent rent the air following the resolution of the dispute by the Oba.
