Some of the 67 suspended Enigie (Dukes) of the Benin Kingdom have appealed to the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, for clemency and forgiveness following their suspension over alleged anti-palace activities.
Their plea was contained in a statement signed by Victor Etinosa Oguigo of Ugoniyekikpoba Dukedom on Wednesday, in which they described defying the Oba as “suicidal”, given his sacred role in their lives.
The suspension, announced on March 7, 2025, was approved by the Oba due to the Enigie’s alleged rebellious actions against the Benin royal authority.
The Edo State Government ratified the suspension, overriding five executive orders issued by former Governor Godwin Obaseki with a single executive order.
According to Paul Ohonbamu, the State Commissioner for Information and Communication, the Enigie’s actions were considered a “Cultural Coup d’état”, as they sought to challenge the authority of the Oba.
However, 40 of the suspended Enigie have denied any wrongdoing, reaffirming their loyalty to the Oba and insisting they never swore any oath against him or the palace.
In their appeal, they pleaded for mercy, stating:
“As our father, it is often said that the hand used to discipline a child is the same hand that draws him close.”
They also expressed their willingness to appear before the Oba at his invitation.
The Benin Traditional Council has yet to issue a response to their plea.
