The Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has placed a spiritual curse on kidnappers, armed robbers and other individuals involved in criminal activities across his kingdom and Edo State.
The traditional ruler pronounced the curse during a spiritual exercise led by priests and priestesses from various shrines, alongside the Ewaise (traditional physicians), the Iwebo society and Aiyelala worshippers.
The ceremony began with a procession from the Oba’s Palace and culminated at the palace’s main entrance in Benin City.
Participants, dressed in ceremonial regalia and carrying traditional spiritual objects, performed libation and other traditional rites while invoking ancestral spirits against those responsible for violent crimes and anyone aiding or collaborating with them anywhere in Edo State.
The exercise forms part of the Benin monarchy’s traditional response to rising concerns over insecurity and violent crime in the state.
