The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has directed traditionalists across Edo South Senatorial District to deploy “spiritual warfare” and lay curses on perpetrators of banditry and other violent crimes.
Oba Ewuare gave the directive on Tuesday, during a meeting with native doctors, priests and priestesses at his palace in Benin.
The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that the Edo State Government also announced plans to establish special courts to handle armed robbery, kidnapping, and ritual practices, among others, to fast-track judgement and punishment for criminals and serve as a deterrent to others.
The Oba said the instruction came from God Almighty and his royal ancestors, following rising insecurity in Nigeria.
He said the traditional institution must complement the government’s efforts to curb the menace.
He ordered the traditionalists to begin a week-long spiritual exercise to intercede for the land.
The exercise would climax at 6 a.m. on Thursday, 2 July at the Oba’s Palace, where curses would be pronounced on evildoers and their collaborators.
“The message is from the ancestors. Edo people, both at home and in the diaspora, should hear this.
“The criminals know that God Almighty and our ancestors will not allow their evil to prevail in Edo,” Oba Ewuare said.
He said that past Obas of Benin would not permit the wishes of criminals to stand, stressing that it was time they abandoned their activities.
Addressing the groups, Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, the Akenuwa of Benin, reiterated Oba Ewuare’s position and urged them not to let their guard down during their various traditional rites.
Mr Osamwonyi said the Benin Palace had intensified behind-the-scenes spiritual consultations and coordination on the issue.