Oba of Benin orders spiritual warfare against banditry in Edo

The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has commanded traditionalists throughout Edo South Senatorial District to initiate "spiritual warfare" and invoke curses upon those involved in banditry and other violent criminal activities. The directive was issued Tuesday during a meeting at the Oba's palace with native doctors, priests, and priestesses.

This move by the traditional institution is intended to bolster the Edo State Government's efforts to combat rising insecurity. The state government recently announced its intention to establish special courts dedicated to handling cases of armed robbery, kidnapping, and ritual practices, aiming to expedite judgments and deter future offenses.

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The message is from the ancestors. Edo people, both at home and in the diaspora, should hear this.

Oba Ewuare stated that the instruction originates from God Almighty and his royal ancestors, emphasizing the need for the traditional system to actively support government initiatives. He ordered the traditionalists to commence a week-long spiritual exercise focused on interceding for the land. This exercise will culminate on Thursday, July 2, at 6 a.m. in the Oba's Palace, where curses will be pronounced on wrongdoers and their accomplices.

"The message is from the ancestors. Edo people, both at home and in the diaspora, should hear this," the Oba declared. He added, "The criminals know that God Almighty and our ancestors will not allow their evil to prevail in Edo." He further stressed that past Obas of Benin would not permit criminals' wishes to succeed and urged them to abandon their illicit activities. The Akenuwa of Benin, Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, reinforced the Oba's stance, urging vigilance during traditional rites and confirming intensified behind-the-scenes spiritual consultations by the Benin Palace.

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The criminals know that God Almighty and our ancestors will not allow their evil to prevail in Edo.