From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
Family of Ezomo in Uzebu community in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State has appealed to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, for forgiveness and lifting of the suspension placed on Okponmwense, the Ezomo of Benin.
The Oba in October 2022, ratified and upheld Okponmwense suspension by Uzama N’ Ihinron, headed by Edionwe Oliha, the Oliha of Benin over anti-palace activities, which led to the indefinite suspension of Ezomo by senior palace chiefs after a litany of complaints and warnings.
The Ezomo family, joined by his mother, Maria Ezomo, and Uzebu Youth Leader (Okaighele), Fidelis Owen, made the appeal at the Oba palace where they pledged their loyalty to the revered Benin throne.
The family that spoke through Owen appealed to the Oba of Benin to restore Ezomo to his position having realised his mistakes.
Similarly, Osarumwense Amayo, the suspended Ohen Iso N’ Ugbekun in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the state, has appealed to the Oba to lift his suspension to enable him carryout his sacred duties on behalf of the palace.
The priest was suspended by the Oba for breaching Oba palace rules over three years ago.
He was accompanied by elders in the community, led by David Enawehio, the Ozukpogiene (4th most elderly man) who spoke through the Okaighele of the community, Ehigie Francis.
“The Oba of Benin owns us and the Ohen Iso N’ Ugbekun. And we will do what he says and obey his orders in Benin kingdom,” Ehigie said.
Responding on behalf of the palace, the Obazelu of Benin, Osaro Idah, who led other chiefs, received the delegations and promised to forward their requests to the appropriate authorities.