By Divine Sam
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has taken significant steps to reverse policies implemented by his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, in an effort to strengthen the role of the Oba of Benin and the traditional institutions in the region. Okpebholo abolished the new traditional councils created in Edo South during Obaseki’s tenure and restored the full statutory financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC), reinstating the status quo that existed before the new councils were established.
In addition, Okpebholo’s administration has backed the Federal Government’s directive recognizing the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, as the exclusive custodian of the ancient Benin artifacts looted by the British in 1897. This move includes a pledge to support the development of the Benin Royal Museum to house the returned artifacts, distancing itself from the Museum of West African Art (MOWA), which the previous administration had advocated.
The governor’s actions aim to foster positive relations between the state government and the people, particularly the Benin Kingdom, by reaffirming the traditional authority of the Oba and restoring his statutory rights and privileges. Okpebholo also withdrew the previous administration’s decision to revoke the concession for the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre and vowed to restore it for its intended cultural purpose.