Oba of Benin Launches Spiritual Campaign Against Kidnappers, Bandits

The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has initiated a major traditional and spiritual campaign aimed at confronting the growing wave of insecurity affecting Edo State and other parts of the country.

The revered monarch made the declaration on Tuesday during a meeting with native doctors, priests, priestesses and custodians of Benin cultural traditions at his palace in Benin City.

The gathering focused on the persistent security challenges confronting communities, including incidents of kidnapping, banditry, armed attacks and other violent crimes that have continued to generate concern among residents.

According to the monarch, traditional institutions have an important role to play in complementing ongoing efforts by security agencies and government authorities to restore peace and safeguard lives and property.

Monarch Cites Divine Guidance

Speaking during the meeting, Oba Ewuare II explained that the decision to summon traditional worshippers and spiritual leaders was inspired by divine direction and guidance from the ancestors of the Benin Kingdom.

He noted that the increasing threat posed by criminal elements requires collective action from all legitimate institutions, including traditional authorities that have historically played significant roles in preserving peace and social order.

The monarch stressed that the security situation has reached a stage where urgent intervention is necessary to protect communities and discourage criminal activities.

One-Week Spiritual Exercise Announced

As part of the initiative, the Oba directed traditional worshippers and custodians of Benin customs across Edo South Senatorial District to embark on a coordinated spiritual exercise targeting individuals involved in violent crimes.

According to him, the exercise will last for one week and will culminate in a major gathering scheduled for July 2, 2026, at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City.

The early morning assembly, expected to commence at 6:00 a.m., will reportedly feature prayers, traditional rites and pronouncements directed against kidnappers, bandits, murderers and others accused of contributing to insecurity.

The monarch maintained that those responsible for terrorising communities should abandon their activities and embrace lawful conduct.

‘Evil Will Not Prevail’

Sending a strong message to criminal elements and their collaborators, the Oba expressed confidence that justice would ultimately prevail over wrongdoing.

“The message is from the ancestors.

“Edo people 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,” the monarch stated.

He further emphasized the rich spiritual heritage of the Benin Kingdom, noting that successive Benin monarchs had historically defended the kingdom against threats and worked to preserve peace and stability.

According to him, individuals engaged in criminal activities should immediately desist or face the consequences of their actions.

Call for Vigilance and Community Support

The Oba also urged Edo residents, both within Nigeria and abroad, to remain vigilant and continue supporting efforts aimed at protecting communities from criminal elements.

He emphasized the need for unity and collective responsibility in addressing security challenges, stressing that safeguarding lives and property should remain a priority for all stakeholders.

Palace Reaffirms Commitment to Security

Also speaking at the meeting, Chief Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, the Akenuwa of Benin, reiterated the palace’s commitment to combating insecurity and supporting initiatives designed to promote peace.

He encouraged traditional worshippers and custodians of indigenous practices to remain steadfast in carrying out their responsibilities and contributing positively to community development.

Osamwonyi disclosed that the Benin Palace had already intensified consultations and internal spiritual engagements in response to growing security concerns across the state.

He assured residents that the palace would continue to support all lawful and genuine efforts aimed at ending criminal activities and ensuring a safer environment for citizens.

The latest initiative underscores the increasing concern among traditional institutions over the security situation and reflects efforts by community leaders to mobilise various segments of society in the fight against crime and violence.