Breaking: Oba Of Benin Declares War Against Bandits, Other Criminal Elements

by Idahosa Musa

His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, on Tuesday directed traditional worshippers, native doctors, priests and priestesses across Edo South Senatorial District to embark on spiritual warfare against banditry and other violent crimes ravaging parts of Nigeria.

The revered Monarch gave the directive during a meeting with traditionalists drawn from the seven local government areas of Edo South at his palace in Benin City, saying the move was aimed at complementing government efforts to tackle worsening insecurity in the country.

Oba Ewuare II disclosed that the directive was inspired by divine instruction from God Almighty and the royal ancestors of the Benin Kingdom in response to the growing threat posed by bandits and other criminal elements.

The monarch ordered the traditionalists to immediately commence a week-long spiritual exercise to intercede for the land and seek divine intervention against insecurity.

He said the exercise would culminate in a special gathering at the Oba Palace by 6:00 a.m. on July 2, 2026, where curses would be invoked against criminals and their collaborators.

According to him, the spiritual exercise is intended to confront the menace of banditry which has continued to gain ground in some parts of the country and restore peace and stability to affected communities.

Oba Ewuare expressed confidence that God Almighty and the ancestors of the Benin Kingdom would not allow the plans of evil-minded persons to prevail in Edo State or any part of Nigeria.

“This message is from the ancestors. That is what we want Edo people at home and in the diaspora to hear.

“They are aware that God Almighty and our ancestors will not allow their evil work to prevail against Edo State.

“The past Obas of Benin will not allow their wishes to prevail. They have been causing confusion. It is time they give up on their activities,” the monarch declared.

Also speaking, the Akenuwa of Benin, Chief Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, who reinforced the monarch’s position, urged the traditionalists not to relent in carrying out their traditional responsibilities.

He disclosed that the Benin Palace had intensified spiritual consultations and coordination behind the scenes as part of efforts to safeguard the kingdom and support the fight against insecurity.