Oba Ewuare II Suspends Royal Praise Singers Indefinitely

Oba Ewuare II of the Kingdom of Benin has placed an indefinite suspension on the Isikhuan royal praise singers due to a serious violation of sacred customs and palace protocol. The incident involved the group performing a traditional ritual reserved exclusively for the Oba at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin.

This breach reportedly occurred shortly before an emergency palace response on Sunday, September 6, 2026. Juliet Omogui, the group's leader and holder of the traditional title Okao, publicly admitted to the violation in a video that circulated on social media.

Following this admission, the Oba stripped her of her title and instructed her to return the traditional headgear, Okuku, to the palace. The decision was announced by Chief Osaro Idah during an emergency meeting at the palace, where other senior chiefs expressed their displeasure at the disrespect shown to the monarchy.

The palace also questioned Chief Igbinedion's role in allowing the performance to occur.