Benin Royal family suspends Duke amid artefact return controversy

The rift between Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, over the return of stolen artefacts and the division of the Benin Kingdom deepened yesterday. The Benin Royal Family announced the suspension of one of the rebellious Enigie (Dukes), Prof. Gregory Akenzua. Previously, both Akenzua and another individual had been suspended by the Benin Traditional Council (BTC).

Prof. Akenzua, a former Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), is the younger brother of the late Oba Erediauwa, the father of the current Oba of Benin.

In a news conference held in Benin, members of the Benin royal family, including descendants of Oba Ovonramwen, Oba Eweka, Oba Akenzua II, and Oba Erediauwa, reiterated that Prof. Akenzua had defied the Benin traditional institution by challenging it in court, contrary to Benin customs and traditions, as well as the core values of the royal family.

Prince George Eweka, speaking on behalf of the family, stated: “Prof. Gregory Akenzua betrayed the core values of respect for Benin customs and traditions, devotion and submission to the customary hierarchy of the Benin Kingdom, and respect for the customary arbitration process. Instead, he chose the path of rebellion.

“The Oba of Benin occupies a unique position as the father of every member of the Benin Royal Family, irrespective of age. We gave Prof. Akenzua ample opportunities to retrace his steps and return to the path of honor and dignity, but he rejected these offers.

“After a careful review of the facts, the family has decided to suspend Prof. Akenzua from the Benin Royal Family for his rebellion against the Benin Traditional Institution. He is no longer permitted to participate in any activities connected with the Benin Royal Family.

“All members of the Benin Royal Family are strongly directed not to relate, associate, or engage with Prof. Akenzua for as long as he remains suspended from the family.”

Prof. Akenzua stated he could not comment as of last night because he was in Lagos for an undisclosed engagement.