The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has clarified the traditional system of market leadership in the Benin Kingdom, rejecting the introduction of the “Iyaloja” title into Edo markets.
The monarch made his position known during a palace visit by Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu and the Iyaloja General, who came to inform him of plans to inaugurate Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as the Iyaloja of all markets in Edo State.
Oba Ewuare II explained that the concept of “Iyaloja” is foreign to Benin culture. In Benin, markets are traditionally led by the Iyeki, who are chosen by traders and confirmed by the palace.
“Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. In Benin, you are in the home of culture; we have our culture here. Do you know the role of Iyeki in Benin culture? Every Iyeki has a special relationship with the palace and performs a cultural role inside each market,” the monarch said.
He added that Iyeki not only coordinate traders but also carry out cultural duties in market shrines on behalf of the palace. Once selected by traders, each Iyeki must be formally presented to the palace for confirmation.
Supporting the Oba’s stance, Chief Osaro Idah emphasized that the Iyeki system is deeply rooted in Benin tradition. He explained that each market operates independently under its own Iyeki, with no overarching general Iyeki.
“The concept of a general Iyeki is alien to Benin custom. Iyaloja is a socio-cultural title elsewhere, but it is not part of our culture. The Iyeki in Oba Market has no role in Ogiso Market. Each market is established for all members of society,” Idah stated.
