The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has cautioned Mrs. Folashade Ojo-Tinubu, daughter of President Bola Tinubu, against referring to herself as Iyaloja-General within the Benin Kingdom, stressing that the title does not exist in Benin culture.
The monarch provided the clarification on Tuesday when Ojo-Tinubu, who is nationally recognised as the Iyaloja-General of Nigerian market women, paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Benin City.
Ojo-Tinubu, who was accompanied by Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo-Anani, Coordinator of the Edo State First Lady’s office, had informed the monarch that she was in Edo to inaugurate Pastor (Mrs.) Josephine Isi Ibhaguezejele as the Iyeki-General of the state.
Responding, Oba Ewuare II explained that the proper title in Benin tradition is Iyeki, not Iyaloja, adding that the Iyeki plays both administrative and cultural roles in every market and must be confirmed by the palace after being selected by the market women.
The monarch stated that the title of Iyaloja is foreign to Benin, noting that Benin is the home of culture, where their own traditions are upheld. He stated that he had discussed the matter with his chiefs and other knowledgeable persons.
Chief Osaro Idah, who was authorised by the monarch to clarify further, explained that each market has its independent Iyeki, such as in Oba Market or Ogiso Market.
He said, “Iyeki is independent in every market like the Oba market, Ogiso market, and others. The traders select their leaders from within the markets. The Iyeki does more than the role of coordinating traders.
“There are certain shrines inhabited in all the markets. They play certain roles on behalf of the palace. After their selection, they bring the person to the palace for confirmation.
“The novelty of general Iyeki is alien to Benin custom and tradition. We just believe the Iyaloja is your socio-cultural thing, like you have other clubs.
“It is not in our culture to have a general Iyeki. Iyeki is particular to each market. No one has the right to control the other in another market. The Iyeki in Oba Market has no role to play in Ogiso Market. The Oba established the market for all in the society.”
