Oba of Benin Orders Traditionalists to Invoke Curses Against Bandits, Criminals

The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Oba Ewuare II, has directed traditional priests, priestesses and native doctors across Edo South Senatorial District to embark on a week-long spiritual exercise against banditry and other violent crimes.

The monarch issued the directive during a meeting with traditional worship practitioners at his palace in Benin City, where he called for what he described as spiritual intervention to complement ongoing efforts by security agencies and government authorities to address insecurity.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the traditional rites will culminate in a gathering at the Oba's Palace on July 2, 2026, where participants are expected to invoke traditional sanctions against criminals and their collaborators.

Oba Ewuare II said the initiative was inspired by concerns over worsening security challenges in parts of Nigeria and the need for traditional institutions to contribute to efforts aimed at restoring peace and public safety.

The monarch stated that traditional authorities have a role to play in supporting initiatives designed to curb criminal activities, particularly banditry and violent attacks affecting communities across the country.

“This message is from the ancestors. That is what we want Edo people at home and in the diaspora to hear,” the Oba said.

He expressed confidence that criminal elements would not succeed in destabilising Edo State, adding that traditional institutions would continue to support efforts aimed at protecting lives and property.

Also speaking during the meeting, the Akenuwa of Benin, Chief Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, urged traditional practitioners not to relent in their various responsibilities and rites.

He said the Benin Palace had intensified consultations and coordination among traditional institutions as part of efforts to address security concerns affecting communities.

The development comes amid growing concerns over insecurity across parts of Nigeria, with governments, security agencies, religious bodies and traditional institutions increasingly exploring various approaches to promote peace and stability.

While security operations remain the primary responsibility of law enforcement agencies, traditional rulers in several parts of the country have continued to advocate community-based approaches and local support mechanisms to strengthen crime prevention efforts.