Oba Of Benin Invokes Ancient Curses Against Kidnappers, Armed Robbers As Edo Insecurity Worsens

Benin, Edo State — The Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has turned to traditional spiritual rites in a renewed effort to combat rising insecurity in Edo State, invoking ancestral powers against kidnappers, armed robbers and other criminal elements terrorising residents.

The revered monarch on Wednesday led priests, priestesses and traditional worshippers in an early morning ritual procession within the Benin Kingdom, offering prayers and invoking ancient spiritual sanctions aimed at exposing, frustrating and punishing perpetrators of violent crimes.

The ceremony, steeped in Benin’s rich cultural and traditional heritage, comes amid growing concerns over cases of kidnapping, armed robbery and other forms of criminality in parts of Edo State.

Addressing participants during the rites, Oba Ewuare II said the traditional intervention was not intended to replace the responsibilities of security agencies but to complement ongoing efforts by government authorities in tackling insecurity.

According to the monarch, traditional institutions have a critical role to play in preserving peace, protecting communities and upholding justice, noting that the kingdom cannot remain silent while criminal activities continue to threaten the lives and livelihoods of innocent people.

The Oba urged residents to support lawful efforts to restore security across the state while reaffirming the commitment of the Benin traditional institution to safeguarding the kingdom through both cultural and spiritual means.