The Kingdom of Benin has been a shining example of African culture, governance, and art for centuries. At the heart of this rich heritage is the Oba of Benin, who is not just a traditional ruler but also the spiritual leader and guardian of the Edo people.
The Benin Monarchy has faced many challenges over the years. It has survived empires, colonial invasions, and the theft of sacred artefacts. Recently, the Obaseki administration tried to undermine the Monarchy’s role in modern governance. But now, there is a new, painful threat emerging from within. This threat comes from some Benin and Edo indigenes living abroad, particularly in Europe and the West.
A troubling trend has arisen on social media: a wave of attacks, insults, and disrespect aimed at the Oba's throne. These individuals, hidden behind screens and given courage by their distance, have chosen to target the monarchy. They have turned social media into a tool for attacking a throne that our ancestors fought to protect.
This is not just harmless online talk or political debate. It is an attack on our identity and culture. When people from Edo, who enjoy life abroad, insult the Oba of Benin, it is a form of cyberbullying and a violation of the dignity of the entire Edo nation and our traditional institutions.
The United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution 79/243 against Cybercrimes to improve international cooperation in dealing with crimes through technology. This resolution aims to help countries work together against cybercrimes and share evidence of serious crimes. It is open for countries to sign until December 31, 2026. This treaty will allow countries to address cybercrimes more effectively.
As Edolites and especially Benins, we must take action against those who use social media to attack the Oba of Benin. We will face this challenge just like our ancestors faced the many historical challenges to our kingdom.
The absurdity of these attacks was highlighted during the 10th Coronation Anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II. While a few negative voices spoke out online, many gathered in Benin City for an impressive display of royal culture. The University of Benin hosted discussions in honour of Oba Erediauwa, there was a grand royal Durbar, and many cultural events took place. While online critics tried to belittle the throne, leaders from all levels of government praised the Oba.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated the Oba, calling him “an enduring symbol of cultural heritage, dignity, and integrity.” Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo and other leaders, including the Sultan of Sokoto, acknowledged the importance of the Benin Royal Stool. The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin, Learned Professor Edoba Omoregie, SAN, praised “His Royal Majesty’s role in fostering social cohesion, peaceful coexistence and strengthening the identity and cultural heritage of the Benin people.”
Social and cultural groups also expressed their admiration for the Oba. The President of the Benin Club 1933, Professor Evbaziegbere Isibor, said, “We celebrate your reign of peace, unity and progress, which continues to inspire hope and strengthen our culture and bring pride to the Benin Kingdom.” The Benin Consultative Forum’s Acting President, Samson Osagie, noted: “that the reign of His Royal Majesty has ushered into the Kingdom a new lease of life characterised by positive traditional reforms that will further consolidate the global respect for the Kingdom.”
The grand celebration of the 10th Coronation Anniversary showed that the Oba's influence is recognized worldwide. It is sad that while leaders in Nigeria and abroad respect our heritage, some Edo people in Europe and the West are trying to mock it. By disrespecting the monarchy, they are damaging Edo pride from the inside.
We cannot sit back and let this happen. Freedom of expression abroad should not give people the right to insult our respected monarchy. As the saying goes:
“Aisagbonrioba, Erinmwin Na Ke riore.”
Edo people, both at home and abroad, need to rise up and defend our throne. While some have stood up for our king, silence from the rest will only invite more disrespect.
We need to send a clear message to those abroad: the Oba of Benin is a sacred figure that must be respected. Digital platforms should not be used for self-sabotage or personal attacks against our rich culture.
The strength of the Edo people has always come from our unity and loyalty to the Royal Court of Benin, similar to how the British remain loyal to their monarchy.
The successful 10th Coronation Anniversary proved that the bond between the Oba and his people is unbreakable. Now is the time for the Edo community around the world to show that they value their culture and support the Benin Monarchy. Most Edo people abroad cherish their heritage and must speak out against negative voices to protect our culture.
The Oba of Benin is a symbol of African dignity, linking us to our past and guiding our future. The world may change, but the honour of the Benin Kingdom is forever. Those who disrespect our king from afar should know: the Edo people will fiercely protect their monarch and will not allow anyone to tarnish the glory of our ancient Kingdom.
Oba gha t’o kpere, Ise!
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