Benin traditional priests, priestesses and traditional physicians, collectively known as Ewaise, have carried out spiritual rites aimed at tackling insecurity in Edo State, laying curses on criminals and performing rituals to fortify the land against violence.
The exercise followed a directive by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, who on June 23 instructed traditional worshippers to revive ancient spiritual practices to complement government efforts in addressing growing security challenges across Edo and Nigeria.
The ceremony, held on Thursday, began with a procession from the main playground of the Oba’s Palace to the palace gate. Clad in traditional regalia and carrying spiritual symbols, the worshippers gathered at the palace entrance where they poured libations, offered prayers and invoked ancestral spirits against kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements.
The traditionalists also prayed for peace, security and prosperity in Edo State and across Nigeria, while carrying out rituals they said would spiritually protect the land from further attacks.
Speaking after the event, the head of the Ewaise Palace Group, Chief Osemwonta Iguezigbon, and the Chief Priest of the Ayelala deity, Chief Clement Edegbe, expressed confidence that the spiritual intervention would help curb violent crimes and expose those supporting criminal activities.
“A lot of things have been going wrong in Benin. Some people are no longer respecting elders. There have been many kidnappings and other crimes. Our aim is to put an end to all these,” Edegbe said.
Iguezigbon explained that the exercise was carried out on the instruction of the Oba of Benin in response to the worsening security situation in Edo State and across the country.
Also speaking, Chief Isaac Oghafua Ogiemwense Oghafua (Oyeoba of Benin) said the spiritual assignment was intended to traditionally fortify the land against insecurity.
Priestess Constance Eguavoen commended Oba Ewuare II for reviving ancient traditional methods to confront criminality, describing the initiative as a significant step in supporting efforts to restore peace and security.
