The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has deposed the traditional priest of Okhuoromi community, in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, Ovbokhan Igbinovia, over alleged unethical practices.
The monarch sacked the priest on Thursday, May 15, 2025, over cases of land grabbing, extortion, and unauthorized demolition of private properties. leveled against him.
The Oba of Benin announced the removal of Igbinovia in his palace through the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, to the elders of Okhuoromi, led by its Odionwere (village head), Pa. Oghagbon Edosomwan.
He directed the village head to administer the area for and on behalf of the palace.
The Oba, who opined that the Benin throne does not support acts of lawlessness and criminality under any guise, distanced the palace from the alleged sacrilege.
He assured the victims of demolished property that justice would be served in due course.
The highly revered Benin monarch added that top palace chiefs have been assigned to further investigate and assess the level of damages in the community.