- The Oba of Benin declared the Iyaloja title as alien to Benin culture and warned that it disrupts traditional market structures.
- The Palace condemned the influence of political trade associations, saying they distort market traditions and increase food prices.
- The Palace insisted it was not consulted before the Iyaloja title was introduced, stressing that proper consultation could have prevented the controversy.
- The Oba urged Edo market women to respect Benin culture and avoid being used as political tools by partisan groups.
The Palace of the Oba of Benin has rejected the recent introduction of the Iyaloja title into Edo State, insisting that it has no roots in Benin culture and could destabilize the traditional market system.
In a statement issued by the Benin Traditional Council and approved by His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, the Palace made it clear that the Iyaloja concept is foreign to Edo and should not be forced into the cultural setting of Benin markets.
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The statement explained that Edo markets have always been guided by long-standing traditional hierarchy, which must be respected at all times. It further criticized the growing role of political trade associations, warning that they exploit traders, inflate food prices, and politicize market activities.
The Palace noted with concern that it was not consulted before the introduction of the Iyaloja title into the state. According to the statement, proper consultation with traditional authorities could have prevented the rising tension and misunderstanding surrounding the issue.
Furthermore, the Palace expressed doubt over the authenticity of the Iyaloja initiative, asking why a title common in other parts of Nigeria should suddenly be imposed on Benin markets. The Palace also appealed to market women not to allow themselves to be used as pawns in political games that weaken market traditions.
The statement warned that trade associations, combined with the foreign Iyaloja concept, are undermining cultural values and frustrating government efforts to reduce food prices.
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The Oba of Benin, while reaffirming his support for the Edo State government, emphasized that the state does not need the Iyaloja system to strengthen its markets. The Palace urged political actors and market leaders to respect tradition and protect the sanctity of Benin heritage.
