The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku, Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has received the Iyaloja-General of Market Women Association, Mrs Folashade Ojo Tinubu, at his Palace in Benin City, Edo state capital.
He extolled the virtues of women and highlighted the implications of undermining traditional roles in markets in Edo.
The royal father however emphasised that the traditional roles does not discriminate against people irrespective of their political affiliation.
Folashade is the daughter of President Bola Tinubu and was in the State for the installation of a self-proclaimed Edo State market women leader (Iyaloja), Pastor (Mrs) Josephine Isi Ibhaguezejele.
During the visit, Oba Ewuare II, offered prayer and extended his good wishes to Folashade who is also the Iyaloja-General.
The monarch however clarified that ‘Iyaloja’-General also known as Iyeki-General nomenclature is alien to Benin tradition.
Oba Ewuare’s assertion was in response to the outrage that followed the purported emergence of Pastor (Mrs) Josephine Isi Ibhaguezejele as market women leader in Edo state.
These were contained in a press statement issued on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS), to the traditional ruler, Mr. Osaigbovo Iguobaro.
Osaigbovo explained that the royal father educated the President’s daughter on assigned roles of various market women leaders in Benin, and make rounds at market shrines, report to the spirits by serving as spiritual rails in addition to coordination of market women, on behalf of the palace.
He stated that the Monarch gave historical account of how markets structure operates in Benin and the priceless sacrifices of prominent past Benin Queens: Idia and Iden N’ Okpokhuo, in Benin Kingdom.
The press secretary quoted the Royal father as saying, “In Benin, we have a special place for women. When you mentioned Iyaloja ― meaning Iyeki-general as they say. This is a bit alien to me. I just say, it’s a bit alien to us here in Benin.
”I know this is an association. You gather yourselves together to be more powerful, and to harness the power of women to help the political class.
”You are in the home of culture. Do you know that every Iyeki has a special relationship with the Palace.?
Earlier in a brief introductory remarks, the Director, office of the First Lady, Edo state, Mrs. Edesili Anani, said, “we are grateful to be here today. I present to you the Iyaloja-General.
”She came to Edo State for the installation of Edo market women leader that has been chosen. And we deem it fit that we must pay homage to the Benin throne.”
