By Oseremen Ihimekpen
The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has launched a spiritual campaign against insecurity, directing traditional worshippers and custodians of Benin customs to intensify prayers and rituals against criminals terrorising Edo communities.
The monarch issued the directive on Tuesday during a meeting with native doctors, priests, priestesses, and other traditional leaders at his palace in Benin City. The gathering focused on the worsening security situation across the country, particularly the rise in banditry, kidnapping, and violent crimes affecting communities.
“The criminals know that God Almighty and our ancestors will not allow their evil to prevail in Edo.”
Oba Ewuare II said the time had come for traditional institutions to take active steps in supporting efforts to restore peace and security. He noted that the decision to summon spiritual leaders was guided by divine direction and counsel from royal ancestors.
The Oba stressed that insecurity has become a serious concern requiring urgent intervention from every legitimate institution, including traditional authorities.
He directed all traditionalists within Edo South Senatorial District to begin a coordinated spiritual exercise targeting those behind violent crimes. The programme will run for one week and will end with a major gathering at 6:00 a.m. on July 2, 2026, at the Oba’s Palace in Benin, where formal curses will be pronounced against bandits, kidnappers, killers, and anyone aiding criminal activities.
The monarch warned criminals and their collaborators that evil would not prevail in Edo land. He said the Benin Kingdom has a long-standing spiritual heritage and past Obas had always defended the land against destructive forces.
Oba Ewuare II urged those involved in criminal acts to abandon such activities immediately or face both spiritual and legal consequences. He also called on Edo people at home and abroad to remain vigilant and support efforts to secure lives and property.
Also speaking at the meeting, Chief Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, the Akenuwa of Benin, reaffirmed the monarch’s position and urged traditional worshippers to remain committed to their spiritual responsibilities. Osamwonyi disclosed that the Benin Palace had intensified consultations and internal spiritual coordination in response to growing security threats.
He concluded that the palace remains committed to supporting every genuine effort aimed at ending insecurity in Edo State.
