Beninese monarch warns of planned protest

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The Oba of Benin, Ewuare ll, on Sunday denounced the solidarity demonstrations planned by the coalition of Beninese socio-cultural organizations over the arrest, indictment and provisional detention of the secretary of the Traditional Council of Benin, Frank Irabor, and six others by the Edo State Police Command.

The Coalition of Socio-Cultural Organizations of Benin had planned a solidarity demonstration on Monday, September 5, with the secretary of the Beninese Traditional Council, Frank Irabor, along with six other people, arrested and brought before a Benin High Court last Thursday .

The alleged illegal demolition of more than 80 houses in Ulegun, Ikpoba Okha local government area of ​​the state, on the orders of Irabor, had sparked protests from the Ulegun community, which necessitated the arrest and prosecution of Irabor and six others.

BTC, in a statement signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, made available to reporters in Benin City on Sunday, said the reason for the planned protest was addressed by the palace.

The statement reads: "The attention of the Traditional Council of Benin has been drawn to a solidarity rally planned by the Coalition of Socio-Cultural Organizations regarding the arrest and detention of the secretary of the Traditional Council of Benin. Benin, Frank Irabor and certain chiefs of the Kingdom of Benin.

“While the Palace appreciates their concern, let it be known that the Palace of the Oba of Benin does not wish such a gathering at this time and therefore orders the organizers of the gathering to halt the exercise immediately.

"The issue in question which led to their arrest is being resolved. In this regard, no one or group of persons should gather at the Palace of the Oba of Benin or anywhere in the Kingdom of Benin on Monday, September 5, 2022.

“This announcement is important for all concerned to please comply,” the statement concludes.