Oba of Benin summons native doctors over human trafficking, kidnapping

The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare 11, summoned all native doctors and chiefs to bring a stop to security challenges in Edo State.

The Oba’s call came after the Edo State House of Assembly began consideration of a bill for a law to prohibit human trafficking and establish Edo State task force against trafficking in persons.

A statement by Secretary, Benin Traditional Council, BTC, Frank Irabor, read:

“I am directed to invite the underlisted groups to an emergency meeting with His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin on Friday March 9, 2018 in connection with the issues of human trafficking, kidnapping and other security challenges in the state.”

Those expected at the meeting include “all senior and junior priests of Okhuaihe, referred to in Benin language as Igie-Ohen Okhuaihe; all senior and junior priests of Ovia, referred to in Benin language as Ohen-Ovia N’khua and N’khere.

“All the priests of Benin traditional religion in Iyekogba, referred to as Ohen-Iyekogba; all the Priests of the Benin traditional religion in Isi, referred to as Ohen N’Ikhuo.

Photo credit: Festus Alenkhe ption
“All native doctors of different spiritual manifestations, referred to as Obo, all Benin chiefs, all Enigie, all Edionwere, all other traditional religious groups recognised by the palace that may wish to contribute their quota in the promotion of peace and development in the state.”