The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has banned the palace’s former Omuada (head of servants), Roland Ogbebor, for posing as his second in command.

Ogbebor also allegedly got involved in other abominable and sacrilegious acts not allowed in Benin Kingdom.

He was equally accused of installing Enogies, Ohens and Okaos in Benin kingdom after he was relieved of his position in 2018 by the first-class monarch as well as engaging in land grabbing, extortion, intimidation and fraud.

The Secretary, Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Frank Irabor, who was accompanied by prominent Benin chiefs, disclosed these in Benin at a briefing, where he announced the formal banning of Ogbebor.

Irabor stated that the ban on the former Omuada was extended to his participation at all Oba palace’s traditional establishments and functions, including spiritual groups, activities, festivals, shrines and Oguedion in Benin kingdom.

The BTC secretary said: “Ogbebor paraded himself as deputising for palace authority, to the extent of being addressed in an abominable manner, as the second in command to His Royal Majesty. This is a sacrilege and an abomination, punishable by customary laws of our tradition.

“The former Omuada also behaved in treacherous ways to the throne of the Oba of Benin that are akin to being a traitor. He has been able to do this by disguising himself as a wolf in sheep clothing. He was of the opinion that his services to the throne were indispensable.

“Any person, village or community that has issue with Ogbebor, especially on land grabbing, extortion, intimidation, impersonation and fraud, is strongly advised to send written complaints to the Secretary, BTC; the police; Department of State Services (DSS); and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) copying the BTC.”

Irabor also said that there was an ongoing overhauling of Benin palace’s administrative system that would put an end to the unfortunate acts exhibited by Ogbebor.