“Iyaloja Concept is Alien to Benin Culture” – Oba of Benin tells Tinubu’s daughter following her visit to inaugurate an Iyaloja in the state
The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has clarified that the Iyaloja market leadership structure is not part of Benin tradition, stressing that the kingdom has its own indigenous system known as Iyeki.
The monarch made this known on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, when he received Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu and Iyaloja General of Nigeria, who visited the palace. Tinubu-Ojo had informed the Oba that she was in Edo State to inaugurate Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as the Iyaloja of all markets in the state.
Responding, Oba Ewuare II explained that in Benin culture, market leadership is rooted in the Iyeki system, where leaders are selected by traders and later confirmed by the palace. He emphasized that each Iyeki also performs cultural and spiritual roles on behalf of the Oba at shrines located within individual markets.
“Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. You are in Benin, the home of culture; we have our culture here. Every Iyeki has a special relationship with the palace and plays roles in the shrine of a particular market. The Oba does not interfere so long as the Iyeki does what is expected,” the monarch stated.
Chief Osaro Idah, who was authorized by the Oba to provide further clarification, noted that unlike the idea of a “general market leader,” every Benin market — such as Oba Market and Ogiso Market — has its own independent Iyeki.
He added:
“It is not in our culture to have a general Iyeki. Each market has its leader, chosen by the traders and confirmed by the palace. The novelty of a general Iyeki is alien to Benin custom and tradition. We believe the Iyaloja is your socio-cultural arrangement, but here, Iyeki is particular to each market.”
The Oba’s comments highlight a long-standing tension between traditional practices and imported socio-political titles in Nigeria, underscoring the palace’s commitment to preserving Benin heritage.
