In a historic move, the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Oba Ewuare II, has appointed Chief Emmanuel Iyase as the new Okao Eguae (District Head from the Benin Palace) for the Ologbo and Ehor Dukedoms. The appointment marks the first time an Okao Eguae has been chosen from the Benin Palace, reinforcing the traditional leadership structures in the areas.
The Ologbo and Ehor Dukedoms, situated in the Ikpoba-Okha and Uhunmwode Local Government Areas of Edo State, have been without district heads following the suspension of their former leaders. The previous Enigie (Dukes) of Ologbo and Ehor, Prince Owen Jackson Akenzua and Chief D. E. Igiehon respectively, were relieved of their duties alongside 69 other suspended Dukes for alleged rebellion against the Benin monarchy.
Speaking during the Ekpomwen-abor ceremony — an appreciation event following the conferment of a chieftaincy title at the Ugha Ozolua axis of the Oba Palace in Benin City — Oba Ewuare II admonished the newly appointed Chief Iyase to steer clear of unethical practices that could tarnish the reputation of the monarchy or the Dukedoms.
“I will also urge the newly appointed Okao to shun acts that are unethical practices that could either undermine the Oba’s authority or bring disrepute to the Dukedoms,” the revered monarch said.
The Oba also advised Chief Iyase to maintain harmonious relationships with the Edionwere (elders) of the Dukedoms and ensure cooperation with key functionaries of the Benin monarchy.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Iyase, who was accompanied by family and well-wishers, expressed deep gratitude to Oba Ewuare II. He pledged to uphold the dignity and integrity of his new office while fostering peace and progress within the Dukedoms.
Chief Iyase vowed to honor the responsibilities entrusted to him and assured the monarch of his unwavering commitment to the well-being and development of the Ologbo and Ehor communities.
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