Oba of Benin Approves Return of Quarterly Media Parley, Commends Journalists on Artefacts Repatriation

By Ikpommwosa Odigie

The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, has approved the resumption of the quarterly media parley with members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, marking the return of a vital platform for engagement between the revered Benin throne and the media community.

The approval followed a formal appeal by the leadership of the NUJ, Edo State Council, led by its Chairman, Dr. Festus Alenkhe, during a courtesy visit to the Oba’s Palace. The parley, which had been a consistent tradition in the past, was suspended for a period due to funding challenges.

Speaking during the highly significant meeting, the Oba of Benin disclosed that one of the reasons the media interaction was put on hold was a shortfall in allocations to the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) occasioned by the previous administration. He, however, noted with satisfaction that the current administration of Senator Monday Okpebholo has since rectified the issue, restoring regular allocations to the council.

The Benin monarch, in his address, commended Edo journalists for the important role they played in publicizing the return of looted Benin artifacts from museums and collections abroad. He revealed that there were several clandestine efforts to frustrate the repatriation exercise, but the persistent and balanced reportage by the media contributed significantly to sustaining public interest and support for the cause.

Addressing one of the most contentious issues in Benin Kingdom’s traditional structure, the Oba spoke about the suspension of over 70 Enigies (Dukes/Traditional rulers), stating that their suspension became inevitable after they revolted against the authority of the Palace.

He particularly noted with disbelief that some of the suspended Enigies from Igbanke, in a desperate attempt to undermine the Benin throne, now claim affiliation with Delta State, which he described as “laughable” and historically baseless.

The monarch further commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for endorsing a Gazette aimed at rectifying the situation and reinforcing the Palace’s traditional authority. He emphasized that loyalty to the Benin throne remained non-negotiable, as the traditional institution represents the collective heritage of the Edo people.

In a poignant reflection on the Benin Kingdom’s history, the Oba recalled instances of past antagonism between the Palace and government authorities. He referenced that he bought the sacred land at King’s Square (Ring Road), that was housing Unity Bank, by the defunct Midwest government, describing it as one of the several spiritual and cultural violations the Kingdom has endured.

In his remarks, NUJ Chairman, Dr. Festus Alenkhe, thanked the monarch for his consistent fatherly role in the affairs of journalists in Edo State. He applauded the Palace for its openness in addressing contemporary issues affecting the Kingdom and the state at large.

Dr. Alenkhe, however, raised concerns about the growing menace of cult-related violence, which he said is tarnishing the image of the state. He appealed to His Royal Majesty to wade into the issue through traditional mechanisms and spiritual intervention, noting that the Palace remains a revered authority capable of influencing positive change within communities.

The meeting concluded with assurances from His Royal Majesty of the Palace’s readiness to collaborate with the media in promoting peace, culture, and good governance in Edo State. The resumption of the media parley is expected to strengthen ties between the traditional institution and the media community, providing a continuous platform for dialogue on critical matters affecting the Kingdom and its people.