By Davidson Ogbebor

Benin City-The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, has indefinitely suspended members of the Isikhuan royal praise singers over an alleged breach of palace rules and Benin traditional customs.

The group was accused of performing a traditional praise ceremony reserved exclusively for the Oba at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawuaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin.

Palace sources described the incident as a violation of a longstanding Benin traditional taboo.

Following the development, the monarch also withdrew the traditional title of Okao from the leader of the group, Juliet Omogui, and directed her to return the traditional headgear, known as Okuku, in her possession to the palace pending further directives.

Omogui was said to have acknowledged the allegation in a video that has circulated widely on social media.

The decision was announced by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency palace meeting held on Sunday.

Members of the Isikhuan group were reportedly given an opportunity to explain their involvement in the incident.

Several palace chiefs, including Chief Ada Igbinovia, Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos and Chief Enoma Ogiesughe, expressed concern over the incident, describing it as disrespectful to the Benin monarchy and its established customs.

The Isikhuan, also known as Isekhian or Emehe palace functionaries, traditionally perform praise songs associated with royal ceremonies and reserved for the Oba.

Palace authorities regard the unauthorised performance of such rites as a serious breach of the traditional order of the Benin Kingdom.

Chief Idah also questioned why Chief Igbinedion permitted the performance at his residence, given his longstanding knowledge of Benin customs and traditions.

The palace is expected to issue further directives on the matter following the indefinite suspension and the return of the traditional insignia.