Aiguobasinmwin Movement Declares Josephine Ebhaguejezele Ineligible For Iyeki Title Under Benin Tradition
The Aiguobasinmwin Movement Worldwide has dismissed the inauguration of Josephine Ebhaguejezele as Iyaloja (Iyeki) in Edo State, insisting that she is unqualified under Benin customs to occupy the revered position.
In a statement signed by its President, Iyamu Osaro, and Secretary-General, Osayuki-Osa Benson, the organisation described the Iyeki as an age-old cultural institution of the Benin Kingdom that cannot be reshaped by politics or individual ambitions.
The group explained that the title is strictly reserved for Benin women who are elected by fellow traders across markets, after which the apex Iyeki is formally presented to the Oba of Benin for royal blessings and spiritual rites.
“It is worthy to note that for anyone to be eligible for the position of Iyeki, one must be a Benin woman,” the statement declared.
Citing the pronouncement of Oba Ewuare II, the movement urged the public to disregard the reported inauguration, stressing that Ebhaguejezele “lacks the eligibility of becoming Iyeki because she is not a Benin woman.”
The group further warned against political interference in cultural matters, insisting that the Iyeki remains a custodian of Benin traditions and “cannot be changed by politicians or anybody.”
It also called on Benin women to immediately begin the process of selecting their Iyeki in line with custom, ahead of her eventual presentation to the royal palace.
