Why Oba of Benin Summoned Native Doctors, Priests, Youth Leaders Over Rising Insecurity

The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has convened an emergency meeting with native doctors, traditional priests and priestesses as part of efforts to address growing insecurity in Edo State and across Nigeria.

The meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City, comes amid increasing concerns over kidnappings, violent crimes, cult-related clashes and other security challenges affecting communities.

A statement issued on Friday by Chief Victor Nosakhare on behalf of the Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council, Frank Irabor, said the gathering was convened under the direct instruction of the monarch and should be treated as a matter of utmost importance.

According to the palace, the session will begin at 12 p.m. and is expected to explore traditional approaches that could complement ongoing security measures by government authorities and security agencies.

Although full details of the discussions were not disclosed, the initiative reflects renewed efforts by the Benin monarchy to support community-based responses to insecurity.

The intervention comes as residents in Edo State and other parts of the country continue to express concerns over incidents of abduction, killings, armed robbery and cult violence.

Traditional institutions have increasingly become involved in conversations around local security, with community leaders seeking additional strategies to safeguard lives and property.

In a related development, the Benin Traditional Council has announced another meeting with youth leaders, popularly known as Okaighele.

That meeting is  to hold on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City, also by 12 p.m., and is expected to focus on issues affecting youth engagement and community security.