In a dramatic turn of events, Governor Godwin Obaseki and his protégé, PDP gubernatorial candidate Asue Ighodalo, made headlines yesterday during their mega rally in Benin City. The rally, which also featured former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and several PDP governors, was marked by a conspicuous and disrespectful omission: a deliberate snub of the revered traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare , in favor of a visit to the Esama of Benin Kingdom.
This deliberate slight towards the Oba of Benin is not merely a political misstep but a profound insult to the cultural and traditional heritage of the Benin people. It reflects a troubling pattern of disrespect that Governor Obaseki has exhibited towards the Benin Traditional Council. Over the years, Obaseki’s administration has consistently sought to undermine the authority of His Royal Majesty and the traditional institutions that uphold the cultural fabric of Edo State. His efforts to establish sub-kingdoms are viewed as a thinly veiled attempt to undermine and weaken the influence of the Oba and the Benin Traditional Council.
The snub during yesterday’s rally underscores a disturbing trend: Obaseki’s open and unabashed defiance against the Benin Palace. In traditional Edo society, such gestures are not taken lightly. The Oba of Benin is not merely a ceremonial figure but a central pillar of authority and tradition, whose role extends beyond the political realm into the very heart of Benin culture and identity. Ignoring the Oba is tantamount to rejecting the values and customs that bind the community together.
The implications of this snub are far-reaching and multifaceted. Politically, it sends a dangerous message about Obaseki’s and Ighodalo’s disregard for the traditional institutions that play a critical role in the governance and unity of Edo State. Such actions could be interpreted as a deliberate strategy to erode the influence of traditional leaders and disrupt the socio-political harmony that has been integral to Edo State’s stability.
Traditional leaders and elders, who have historically served as mediators and guardians of peace, are likely to view this snub as a direct challenge to their authority. This could lead to a broader backlash from traditional institutions and their supporters, potentially destabilizing the political landscape and alienating a significant portion of the electorate who hold these institutions in high regard.
Edo State’s rich cultural heritage and traditional institutions are vital to its identity and governance. The Oba of Benin, as the custodian of these traditions, embodies the unity and continuity of the Benin Kingdom. Disrespect towards the Oba is not just a political miscalculation but an affront to the cultural values that the people hold dear.
The actions of Obaseki and Ighodalo call into question their commitment to respecting and upholding the traditional institutions that are crucial to the state’s social cohesion. Edo people must reflect on the implications of supporting leaders who show contempt for their traditions and heritage. A leader who disrespects the Oba and the traditional council is one who may, in turn, undermine the very essence of Edo society.
The electorate should view this behavior as a clear indication that Ighodalo’s leadership is incompatible with the values and integrity that Edo State needs. The state deserves leaders who respect and uphold its rich traditions, ensuring that traditional institutions continue to safeguard unity and stability.
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the Chairman and CEO of Bush Radio Academy.
