The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, emphasized the importance of respecting the lawful decisions of the Odionwere (community head), Pa Igiebor Imuetinyan, in the Obaretin community of Ikpoba-Okha local government area in Edo state.
Addressing the issue at the palace in Benin, the monarch conveyed this message through Chief Stanley Obamwonyi, the Esere of Benin, after hearing the concerns raised in a petition by certain elders against Imuetinyan, who faced difficulties returning to the community due to past incidents.
Highlighting Imuetinyan’s health challenges, the Oba stressed that despite these, Imuetinyan remained the duly appointed Odionwere of Obaretin, authorized to oversee the community’s affairs without interference.
The Oba directed the second elder, Pa Igiebor Omokaro, and other community elders (Edion) to refrain from unlawful actions that might disrupt peace in Obaretin, urging them to accord due respect to the Odionwere, regardless of his health situation.
The Oba of Benin firmly warned that any disregard for the palace’s directive would result in accountability for Omokaro and other community elders. Additionally, he cautioned the elders against allowing the youth to override their decisions in matters of governance within the community.
