Oba of Benin wages spiritual war on kidnappers, violent criminals

Palace ceremony targets insecurity

In a country where families now whisper prayers each time loved ones embark on a journey and communities live under the shadow of kidnappers and violent criminals, the ancient kingdom of Benin turned to centuries-old tradition in search of hope.

On Thursday, the Oba of Benin, Omo N' Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, directed traditional worshippers, priests, priestesses and palace physicians known as Ewaise to invoke ancestral justice against kidnappers, violent criminals and their collaborators.

The ceremony took place at the entrance of the Oba's palace, where culture, spirituality and public concern over insecurity converged in a symbolic declaration against violence. Participants, dressed in red regalia and carrying traditional spiritual symbols, marched in a solemn procession from the palace grounds before gathering at the main entrance.

There, libations were poured over sacred objects as prayers and invocations were offered, calling on ancestral spirits to stand against those threatening the peace and stability of Edo State and Nigeria.

Calls for protection and justice

Beyond invoking curses on perpetrators of violent crimes, the ceremony sought divine protection for the land. Prayers were offered that Edo be fortified against bandits and criminal elements, while blessings were asked for those working for the progress and development of the state and the nation.

For many residents who watched the procession, the ritual represented more than a religious exercise. It reflected the frustration of communities battered by repeated reports of kidnappings, killings and violent attacks, and a growing desire for every possible solution that could help restore safety.

The public nature of the event also reinforced the message that insecurity has become a shared concern affecting families, communities and institutions across the state.

Palace officials explain the assignment

Speaking during the ceremony, the head of the Ewaise palace group, Chief Osemwonta Iguezigbon, said the spiritual assignment was inspired by the Oba's concern over the worsening security situation across the country.

What happened today was directed by the Oba of Benin, considering what is happening not only in Edo State, but also in Nigeria. Our Oba thought it wise to put a stop to it.

— Chief Osemwonta Iguezigbon, Head of the Ewaise Palace Group, Oba of Benin Palace

The Chief Priest of the Ayelala deity, Clement Edegbe, said the exercise came amid concern over both rising criminality and what he described as declining social values.

A lot of things have been going wrong in Benin. Some people are no longer respecting elders. There has been a lot of kidnappings and others.

— Clement Edegbe, Chief Priest of the Ayelala Deity, Ayelala

Also speaking, Chief Isaac Oghafua Ogiemwense Oghafua, the Oyeoba of Benin, explained that the spiritual assignment was intended to fortify the land against insecurity using traditional means.

Traditional institutions and public response

While governments continue deploying security agencies, technology and intelligence to combat violent crime, the Oba's intervention highlighted the enduring place of traditional institutions in Nigerian society. In many communities, palaces remain symbols of moral authority capable of rallying people around shared values and communal responsibility.

The ceremony also illustrated how ancient traditions continue to serve as public expressions of resilience in times of uncertainty. Whether viewed through the lens of faith, culture or heritage, the event conveyed a message of resistance to fear and violence.

As the chants faded and the procession dispersed, the ceremony left behind renewed hope that peace could once again take root in the land, and that the combined efforts of government, security agencies, traditional institutions and citizens would help reclaim communities from violence.