Ologbo Traditional Leadership: Chief Iyase Rejects Purported Installation of Olare-Aja

By Elvis Omoregie 

The Okao Nore-Guae overseeing Ologbo, Ehor and Okhuoromi communities in Edo State, Chief Emma Iyase, has warned against what he described as efforts to establish a parallel traditional authority in Ologbo, rejecting the reported installation of Pa Johnson Obubu Itoto as the Olare-Aja of the community.

Speaking on the development, Chief Iyase said the installation, reportedly carried out on May 30, 2026, was unknown to Benin customs and traditions and constituted a violation of the recognized traditional authority structure of the Benin Kingdom.

According to him, Ologbo remains an integral part of the Benin traditional institution, and matters concerning traditional leadership, chieftaincy titles and community governance must align with the customs, laws and established practices of the kingdom.
“Any installation conducted outside the recognised traditional structures and procedures cannot enjoy legitimacy within the community,” he stated.

Chief Iyase noted that he was duly appointed by Oba Ewuare II to oversee Ologbo community and described the purported installation as a sacrilegious act capable of creating tension, confusion and division among residents.

He further argued that the exercise was conducted without the necessary authority, approval and adherence to the traditional protocols governing the community.

“No individual, group or external interest possesses the power to confer traditional authority in Ologbo outside the established Benin traditional framework,” he added.

While affirming the constitutional rights of citizens to freedom of association and cultural expression, Chief Iyase cautioned against attempts to distort the history, customs and traditional institutions of Ologbo for personal or sectional interests.

He called on residents and stakeholders to remain peaceful and law-abiding while relevant traditional authorities and government institutions are notified of the development and take appropriate steps to protect the integrity of Ologbo’s traditional heritage.

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