Edo State has been thrown into controversy following the installation of Pastor Josephine Ibhaguezejele as Iyaloja by Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu.
The ceremony, which took place on Tuesday at the Government House in Benin City, sparked mixed reactions and protests from sections of the state.
During a courtesy visit to the palace on Thursday, however, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, firmly stated that the title of Iyaloja has no place in Benin tradition.
Addressing Tinubu-Ojo and her delegation, the monarch explained that Benin markets are traditionally headed by Iyeki, who serve as cultural custodians with direct ties to the palace.
“The concept of Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. This is the home of culture. Every market has an Iyeki who maintains a special relationship with the palace and performs cultural rites in the shrines of the markets,” the Oba said.
“The Oba does not interfere, so long as the Iyeki fulfills her traditional duties. That is the structure we recognise in Benin.”
The statement reinforced ongoing protests by market women last week, who insisted that only a Benin woman—specifically an Iyeki—can lead market women in the state.
Critics argued that the introduction of the Iyaloja title undermines centuries-old traditions.
Cultural analyst Patrick Osadalor dismissed the installation, describing it as meaningless without the Oba’s approval.
“The Oba already made it clear: Benin culture recognises Iyeki, not Iyaloja. Each Iyeki performs spiritual and cultural duties for the Oba. A non-Benin person cannot fulfill those obligations,” Osadalor said.
“Without the Oba’s blessing, no Iyaloja can function effectively in Edo.”
Despite the backlash, some residents have downplayed the tension. A resident from Edo Central, who preferred anonymity, argued that the role could simply serve as a coordinating position outside Benin markets.
“There is nothing wrong with installing a non-Benin as Iyaloja. She may not be accepted in Benin markets, but she could still function in Edo Central and Edo North,” the resident said.
The development has left Edo divided, with one camp seeing the installation as a breach of cultural norms and the other treating it as a harmless administrative appointment.
