The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has firmly rejected the introduction of the Iyaloja system into Edo markets, emphasizing that it is alien to Benin culture and traditions.
The monarch made this clear when Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu and Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, paid him a visit in Benin City. Tinubu-Ojo was in the state to inaugurate Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as Iyaloja of all markets in Edo State.
Oba Ewuare explained that the Benin Kingdom already has a well-established traditional market leadership structure, led by the Iyeki, who not only coordinates traders but also performs vital cultural and spiritual duties on behalf of the palace.
“Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. In Benin, you are in the home of culture, we have our culture here,” the monarch said. “Every Iyeki has a special relationship with the palace and a cultural role to perform in the shrine located within each market.”
Chief Osaro Idah, speaking on behalf of the palace, further clarified that the role of Iyeki is unique to each market, such as Oba Market and Ogiso Market. He stressed that each Iyeki is independently selected by market traders and later confirmed by the Oba, making the concept of a “general market leader” foreign to Benin customs.
“The novelty of a general Iyeki is alien to Benin tradition. Iyeki is particular to each market. No one has authority over another market,” Idah explained.
The palace therefore maintained that the indigenous Iyeki system remains the only recognized authority in Edo markets, reaffirming the kingdom’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
