Benin monarch orders traditionalists to lay curses against banditry

The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has directed traditionalists across Edo South Senatorial District to embark on a coordinated spiritual campaign against banditry and other violent crimes, as concerns over insecurity continue to grow across parts of Nigeria.

He gave the directive on Tuesday during a meeting with traditionalists, including native doctors, priests and priestesses, at his palace in Benin City, Edo State.

According to the royal father, the move became necessary in view of prevailing security challenges confronting the country and the need for traditional institutions to complement government efforts aimed at curbing criminal activities.

Oba Ewuare II said the directive was inspired by divine guidance and ancestral instruction, stressing that traditional institutions have a role to play in safeguarding society and preserving peace.

He ordered the traditionalists to immediately commence a week-long spiritual exercise aimed at interceding for the land and confronting rising criminality, particularly banditry.

The exercise, according to him, will culminate at the Oba Palace on Thursday, July 2, 2026, where traditional rites and pronouncements against perpetrators of violence and their collaborators will be conducted.

“This message is from the ancestors. That is what we want Edo people at home and in the diaspora to hear,” the monarch said.

“They are aware that God Almighty and our ancestors will not allow their evil work to prevail against Edo State. The past Obas in Benin will not allow their wishes to prevail. They have been causing confusion. It is time they give up on their activities.”

Oba Ewuare II expressed confidence that divine intervention and ancestral protection would frustrate attempts by criminal elements to destabilise Edo State and other parts of Nigeria.

Speaking during the gathering, Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, the Akenuwa of Benin, reaffirmed the monarch’s position and urged traditional practitioners not to relent in their respective spiritual responsibilities.