Youth Defend Traditional Oath-Swearing in Edo Dispute

Youth from Iguovbiobo Community in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, Edo State, have defended the traditional oath-swearing process related to the leadership dispute over the Odionwere position. The youth, represented by Austin Evbuomwan, criticized social media attacks against a three-man committee established by the Palace of the Oba of Benin, led by Chief Osaro Idah Obazelu.

They dismissed allegations of blackmail targeting committee members, emphasizing that such claims could undermine the integrity of Benin's traditional institutions. The committee, which includes Chief Isaac Ogiemwens Oyioba and Chief Omoruyi Okungbowa Aideyanba, was mandated to address the two-year-old Odionwere tussle.

The youth highlighted that according to Benin customs, the oldest man in the community has the right to the Odionwere position, amidst ongoing controversies surrounding the issue.