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Benin Palace Rejects ‘Iyaloja’ Title in Edo Markets
By Itoro Uwah | October 7, 2025 | Nigeria News
The Palace of the Oba of Benin has firmly rejected the introduction of the “Iyaloja” title into Edo State’s market system, describing it as alien to Benin culture and potentially disruptive to peace and tradition.
In a statement released by the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) and authorized by His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, the Palace warned that the introduction of the Iyaloja title and the growing political influence in local markets threaten the traditional hierarchy that has governed Benin commerce for centuries.
Palace Warns Against Politicizing Market Leadership
According to the statement, the Palace was not consulted before the introduction of the title. It said such a move undermines the authority of the throne and could cause confusion among traders. The Palace cautioned that allowing politically motivated trade associations to interfere in market administration risks destabilizing the long-standing cultural order.
“The Palace maintains that the Iyaloja concept is foreign to Benin culture. We frown at the use of trade associations to run open markets and to play partisan politics,” the statement read in part.
It further advised market women and traders across Edo State to respect the existing traditional hierarchy and desist from aligning with politicians who may seek to exploit their influence for selfish gains.
Iyaloja Title Not Part of Benin Heritage
The title “Iyaloja,” which translates to “Mother of the Market,” is traditionally a Yoruba concept, originating from the southwestern part of Nigeria where it denotes a woman who oversees market affairs under local customs. However, the Benin Palace emphasized that its market system has always been managed through an indigenous structure governed by Otu Market Chiefs and palace-appointed representatives who report directly to the Oba.
By introducing the Iyaloja concept into Edo markets, the Palace said, certain individuals appear to be imposing foreign traditions on Benin people—an act seen as an affront to the historical and cultural sovereignty of the ancient kingdom.
Oba Ewuare II Calls for Cultural Respect and Unity
His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, appealed for calm among market leaders and traders while urging everyone to remain loyal to Benin’s traditional authority. He stressed that the peace and unity of the kingdom remain paramount and that all actions affecting communal life must align with the values and traditions of the land.
“The Palace remains committed to protecting the unity, dignity, and peace of the Benin Kingdom. Our culture must not be politicized. Market leaders should discharge their duties in line with ancestral order and the guidance of the throne,” the monarch declared.
Public Reaction and Cultural Context
The announcement has generated broad discussions across Edo State, with many traders and traditionalists backing the Oba’s position. Some market leaders in Benin City reaffirmed their allegiance to the throne, noting that the Palace’s stance reflects the authentic voice of the people.
A trader at Uselu Market told Witty Global Blogs that “the Oba’s word is final when it comes to tradition. We have our way of life, and nobody should import another system to confuse us.” Others warned that the introduction of the Iyaloja title could create division among market women and weaken their collective harmony.
Experts and Cultural Leaders Commend the Palace
Cultural experts and scholars have applauded the Benin Traditional Council for defending indigenous identity. Professor Nosakhare Aigbovbiosa, a historian at the University of Benin, stated that “the Iyaloja system is a Yoruba traditional title and does not align with Benin governance. Every culture has its uniqueness; attempts to blend systems without understanding heritage can erode authenticity.”
Analysts also warned that mixing politics with culture can cause long-term instability in community institutions. Civic groups have urged politicians to steer clear of market affairs and respect the sacred boundaries of Benin’s traditional leadership.
Palace Reaffirms Its Authority
Reiterating its earlier stance, the Benin Traditional Council urged all market associations to continue functioning under palace supervision. The statement concluded with a firm reminder that the Oba of Benin remains the spiritual and cultural custodian of the land, and any action that seeks to dilute or rival his authority will be resisted.
“The Oba of Benin remains the supreme custodian of our culture. The markets belong to the people, but the people belong to the Palace. We must not allow politics to weaken our heritage,” the BTC declared.
Source: Benin Traditional Council (BTC) Official Statement
Author: Itoro Sunday Uwah
Publisher: www.wittyglobalblogs.com
Date: October 7, 2025
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