Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has taken significant steps to honor and uphold the cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom by restoring the full powers and traditional rights of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II. This move includes abolishing the controversial traditional councils established by the previous administration under Governor Godwin Obaseki, which had drawn criticism for allegedly undermining the authority of the revered monarch.

Key Highlights of the Decision:

1. Restoration of Authority: Governor Okpebholo reinstated the Oba as the supreme traditional authority in Edo State, reaffirming his exclusive role as the custodian of Benin culture and customs.
2. Financial Independence: The statutory financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) have been fully restored, ensuring the council’s operational autonomy.
3. Focus on Cultural Preservation: The administration has pledged to support the establishment of the Benin Royal Museum to house repatriated Benin artefacts, distancing itself from the Museum of West Africa Art (MOWAA) initiated by the prior government.
4. Respect for Tradition: Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to respecting the customs of the Benin Kingdom and pledged non-interference in its internal affairs.

This development underscores the government’s dedication to preserving Edo’s rich cultural legacy and promoting harmony between the state and its traditional institutions. It also highlights a broader effort to strengthen the traditional monarchy, a pillar of identity for the Edo people.

The move has been well-received by the Benin community, with many seeing it as a step toward healing divisions and fostering unity across the state. However, it has also drawn political attention as the Governor’s approach contrasts sharply with his predecessor’s policies, making this a pivotal moment for Edo State’s governance and cultural affairs.