The Ogbakha-Edo Indigenous Peoples Welfare Foundation has strongly opposed a controversial bill currently before the National Assembly seeking to designate the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife as permanent co-chairmen of the National Council of Traditional Rulers (NCTR). The group, speaking on behalf of the Benin people, described the proposal as an affront to Nigeria’s federal character and an attempt to diminish the authority of other traditional rulers—particularly the Oba of Benin.
The bill, sponsored by former Plateau State Governor and current Senator representing Plateau South, Simon Lalong, has sparked widespread criticism across the country, with many viewing it as a threat to national unity and an effort to institutionalize ethnic and religious dominance within Nigeria’s traditional leadership framework.
In a press conference held in Benin City, Edo State, the foundation’s Chairman, Professor Sam Guobadia, and Secretary, Hon. Dr. Andrew Osaretin Izekor, condemned the bill in its entirety. They described it as “ill-conceived, divisive, and culturally offensive,” warning that it would marginalize other ethnic nationalities and regions.
“The Ogbakha-Edo, speaking on behalf of the revered and culturally conscious people of Benin, hereby express in the strongest terms their deep-seated disapproval and profound indignation,” the group stated in a press release.
They argued that the move to elevate only two traditional rulers to permanent leadership status is a historically unjustifiable attempt to institutionalize supremacy “where none exists,” and disregards the cultural and historical significance of other royal thrones, especially that of the Oba of Benin.
“The Benin people, anchored in centuries of cultural pride and historical sovereignty, vehemently reject any move that seeks to subordinate the imperial and highly revered throne of the Oba of Benin,” the statement read.
The group emphasized the long-standing heritage of the Benin Kingdom, noting that it existed as a powerful empire more than 600 years before the arrival of British colonialists, with influence stretching across present-day Edo, Delta, parts of Ondo, Lagos, and into the Benin Republic.
“At that time, many of the kingdoms now elevated in public discourse were either non-existent or mere village clusters,” the statement added.
According to the foundation, the proposed bill fails to consider historical, territorial, and cultural pedigree in its framework for national traditional leadership. Instead, it appears to favor a geopolitical balancing act that undermines centuries-old traditional institutions.
The Ogbakha-Edo called for the immediate withdrawal of the bill, urging lawmakers to prioritize equity and cultural integrity over political considerations. They further warned against any legislative moves that could destabilize the delicate balance and mutual respect among Nigeria’s traditional institutions.
“The Benin people remain steadfast in defending their glorious heritage and will continue to resist any act that seeks to erase or marginalize their history,” the statement concluded.
The debate surrounding the bill continues to intensify as traditional leaders and stakeholders across the country voice their positions .
