The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has ordered the demolition of a village shrine (Ogue-Odion) and a market at Igbekhuen, in the Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State.
The monarch, who spoke in Bini dialect, gave the order at his palace while presiding over matters affecting individuals, villages and groups.
The monarch said the shrine and market were not approved by the palace.
It was gathered that the monarch’s verdict followed complaints lodged by the elders and people of Igbekhuen village over the establishment of a second shrine by some individuals.
The monarch said, “It is against the Bini tradition and norms for individuals or groups to unilaterally establish the Ogue-edio or a local market without due authorisation from the oba’s palace.”
The traditional ruler directed two top palace officials to effect the sealing of the unauthorised village shrine and market.
On his part, the village head of Igbekhuen, Mr Oghomwenrughaen Omoruyi, promised to work with the palace to promote peace and progress in the village.
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