Iguovbiobo Youths Back Oba’s Committee Over Odionwere Dispute


By Elvis Omoregie, Benin 

The youths of Iguovbiobo Community in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area have expressed support for the three-man committee constituted by the palace of the Oba of Benin to resolve the lingering Odionwere tussle in the community.

The youths, led by the Okaighele (Youth Leader) of the community, Austin Evbuomwan, described allegations and blackmail directed at members of the committee as baseless and unwarranted.

In a statement made available to journalists, Evbuomwan said the committee, headed by Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin Kingdom, alongside Chief Isaac Ogiemwense, the Oyioba of Benin, and Chief Omoruyi Okungbowa, the Aideyanba of Benin, was set up by the Benin Palace to investigate and resolve the over two-year-old crisis in the community.



According to him, the dispute stemmed from claims and counterclaims of seniority between Pa Eboigbe and Pa Okungbowa, noting that under Benin custom and tradition, the most senior man in a community is recognised as the rightful Odionwere.

Evbuomwan said it was unfortunate that after the committee dedicated time and traditional procedures toward restoring peace, some individuals allegedly resorted to media attacks and campaigns of blackmail against the respected palace chiefs.

He explained that the committee, in line with Benin customs and tradition, subjected the issue of seniority to traditional oath-taking at the palace of the Oba of Benin as part of efforts to establish the true position of the contending parties.

According to him, while Pa Daniel Okungbowa willingly participated in the traditional process and declared his date of birth as December 13, 1928, Pa Ohenhen Eboigbe and members of his family reportedly declined to take part in the exercise.

“As youths of Iguovbiobo Community, we have absolute confidence in the integrity, neutrality and wisdom of the committee led by Chief Osaro Idah,” Evbuomwan stated.

He added that the palace chiefs acted in the interest of peace, justice and unity in the community and deserved appreciation rather than politicisation.

The youth leader reaffirmed the loyalty of the community to the palace of the Oba of Benin and the Benin traditional institution, describing it as a symbol of justice, truth and cultural heritage.

Evbuomwan also expressed confidence in Pa Okungbowa’s capacity to provide purposeful leadership for the community and urged him to carry all stakeholders along in the spirit of peace, reconciliation and development.

He maintained that the youths of Iguovbiobo Community remained committed to sustaining peace, unity and harmony in the area.

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