Oba of Benin recalls ostracised woman to community

The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has recalled Mrs Victoria Orhue who was ostracised from Obe-N’evbueribo community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government of Edo State by the Odionwere, Mr.Oyeobasojie Ekhator and Ohen, Mr. Osaghae Edobo of the community over communal issues.

The monarch also directed that her lands and other properties belonging to her that were forcefully confiscated by the duo be returned to her immediately.

The monarch gave the order at the weekend while presiding over matters affecting individuals, families and villages in Benin Kingdom in his palace.

Mrs Orhue and her children were banished from the community for confronted the Odionwere and Ohen of the community over alleged forceful seizure of her land and properties.

She was also said to have been assaulted severally by some Community Development Association (CDA) youths believed to be working for the Ohen and Odionwere.

In his ruling, described as bias and unacceptable the unilateral decision of the Ohen and Odionwere, as they have no powers to banish anyone from the village.

He further warned that decision on certain traditional matters must be brought to the palace for due consultations before passing judgement.

In related development, the Monarch also ordered the Odionwere of Amagba community Mr. Oduoriyekemwen in Oredo Local Government Area to give another piece of land to Mrs Ann Aghayere in place of the one forcefully taken from her and sold.

He also directed that a perimeter fence should be erected on the new land by the Odionwere as compensation.