In a move that underscores growing concerns over the persistent security challenges facing Edo State and the country, the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has summoned traditional doctors across the Benin Kingdom to an emergency meeting aimed at exploring indigenous solutions to insecurity.
The directive, contained in a Palace Public Announcement issued by the Benin Traditional Council on Friday, indicated that the monarch is seeking to complement government efforts through traditional and strategic measures rooted in Benin cultural heritage.
According to the statement, the emergency meeting is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the Ugha Ozolua within the Oba Palace, Benin City, beginning at noon.
The notice specifically invited all Igiohen N’ Ikpia and Igiohen N’ Ikhuo—traditional doctors in the Benin Kingdom—to attend the meeting in person, stressing that compliance is mandatory.
The palace said the decision followed the Oba’s assessment of the prevailing security situation in Edo State and across the country.
“Having taken due cognizance of the prevailing security situation within Edo State and the Nation at large, His Royal Majesty has deemed it necessary and expedient to further explore all traditional and strategic means to complement the initiatives of Government towards the restoration of peace, order, and security in our domain,” the statement read.
The development signals a renewed reliance on traditional institutions and indigenous knowledge systems in addressing rising concerns over criminality, kidnappings, cult-related violence and other security threats that have continued to challenge communities in several parts of the country.
Observers say the emergency gathering reflects the enduring influence of traditional authority in Benin Kingdom and highlights the willingness of the revered monarch to mobilise all available cultural and spiritual resources in support of ongoing efforts to secure lives and property.
The announcement was issued on the authority of the Oba of Benin and signed by Chief Asiriuwa Victor Nosakhare (Obarisiuwa N’weguae) for the Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council.
The palace urged all invited traditional practitioners to treat the notice with utmost urgency and ensure full attendance.
