Benin Traditional Council Cautions Against Political Influence in Market Leadership
The Benin Traditional Council has issued a clear statement regarding the politicization of market leadership roles, emphasizing that the concept of Iyaloja does not belong to Benin culture. This assertion underscores the council’s commitment to preserving traditional values and the integrity of market operations.
Rejection of Political Manipulation
The palace has voiced strong disapproval towards the involvement of trade associations in the management of open markets, particularly when it aligns with political agendas. They labeled such actions as detrimental to the core principles of Benin’s market culture.
Understanding the Role of Iyeki
According to traditional customs, the Iyeki is a market leader chosen from among market women. Once selected, the Iyeki is formally acknowledged and installed by the palace. This independent role is vital, as it fosters a direct and functional association with the palace.
The Call for Cultural Integrity
In their statement, the council urged that the responsibilities tied to the Iyeki should remain free from political influence. “Any deviation from this age-old cultural system may lead to a breach of peace,” the statement reiterated. The palace emphasized that it has observed increasing attempts to use markets as platforms for partisan political agendas.
Essence of the Iyeki Role
The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, elaborated on the significance of the Iyeki, highlighting that each has specific spiritual responsibilities linked to both the palace and the welfare of the market community. The palace reiterated that there is no honorary Iyeki title in Benin culture; every Iyeki maintains a cultural, spiritual, and religious connection to the palace.
Scheduled Gathering for Market Leaders
The traditional council has summoned all Iyekis to a meeting for further discussions scheduled for Thursday at 12 noon, aiming to clarify their roles amidst the evolving political landscape.
Support for Government Authorities
While reinforcing their traditional governance roles, the council expressed support for the state government, acknowledging the governor and president’s efforts in maintaining order. They urged both market women and politicians to honor the sanctity of the Oba’s name and avoid entangling it with political controversies.
(Source: NAN)
