A group, Benin United Forum has called on the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, to invoke curses against those causing the unrest amid the recent rise of cult violence in Edo state.
Many citizens believe that the involvement of the revered Benin monarch could help bring peace by discouraging cultists from continuing their activities according to the PUNCH.
The rise in cult-related violence has led to fear and insecurity in communities, with reports of clashes between rival groups.
The violence has disrupted daily life, forcing people to stay indoors and businesses to close early. Local leaders and community members now look to the Oba for intervention.
A press statement by Benin United Forum signed by the President and Secretary of the group, Iyamu Culture, and Osayuki-Osa Benson, on Tuesday, read, “We humbly appeal to Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolo Kpolo, Oba Ewuare II, to direct our Ohens (Chief Priests) across the length and breadth of Benin Kingdom to immediately place curse(s) on those who are hiding under cultism to kill themselves in parts of Benin City which have consumed the lives of countless youths especially at Upper Sakponba Axis which is often seen as the center ground for the barbaric act, followed by Egor/Uwelu, Ugbowo/Uselu, part of GRA.”
In recent years, the Oba of Benin has invoked traditional curses to maintain order and deter wrongdoing, which is why many believe that a similar approach could help curb the cult violence.
Community leaders are urging the state government to work closely with the Benin royal palace to find lasting solutions.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command has confirmed the death of one person in a renewed cult war in the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, said one person has so far been killed in the cult clash.
He stated, “I don’t know if there were cult killings, but I can confirm one corpse was picked on Monday around the pipeline, I have the picture on my phone. As of Tuesday, I don’t have any information that anything has happened”.
