The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has sacked the priest of Okhuoromi community, Ovbokhan Igbinovia, over allegations of land grabbing, extortion, and unauthorized demolition of private properties.
The monarch’s decision was made on Thursday, May 15, 2025, and conveyed to the elders of Okhuoromi by Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin.
The allegations against the priest were deemed a clear violation of Benin customs and tradition.
The Oba has mandated the village head, Pa. Oghagbon Edosomwan, to administer the area on his behalf and warned that anyone who contravenes the verdict would incur the wrath of the law and ancestors.
The palace has distanced itself from the alleged sacrilege, stressing that the Benin throne does not support acts of lawlessness and criminality under any guise.
The Oba has urged the people of the community to eschew violence and assured the victims that justice would be served in due course.
Palace chiefs have been assigned to further investigate and assess the level of damages in the community.
The victims have been advised to channel their complaints with pictorial and video evidence to the appropriate authorities.