Oba Ewuare II Floors Tinubu’s Daughter, Rejects “Iyaloja” Title in Benin

Benin City, Edo State – October 2, 2025

Oba Ewuare II, the 40th Oba of Benin, has publicly rejected the introduction of the “Iyaloja” title into Edo markets, emphasizing that such a title is not recognized within the Benin Kingdom’s cultural structure.

The monarch reaffirmed that market leadership in Benin is traditionally vested in the Iyeki, a position that is deeply rooted in the kingdom’s customs and is closely associated with the palace.

The Oba’s clarification came in response to recent developments involving the inauguration of Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as the Iyaloja of all markets in Edo State. This event was led by Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the daughter of President Bola Tinubu and the national Iyaloja-General, accompanied by other market women and officials from the Edo State government

During a meeting with Mrs. Tinubu-Ojo, Oba Ewuare II expressed that the title “Iyaloja” is alien to Benin culture. He emphasized that, in the Benin Kingdom, market leadership is traditionally guided by the palace through the institution of the Iyeki, who must be confirmed by the palace after being selected by the market women

The Iyeki holds a significant role in Benin’s market system. Beyond coordinating the affairs of traders, the Iyeki performs certain cultural duties on behalf of the Oba, including responsibilities related to shrines located within the markets, thereby integrating the spiritual and administrative functions in the governance of Benin’s markets.

Oba Ewuare II’s assertion serves to preserve the traditional market leadership structure in Benin, ensuring that external titles and systems do not supplant the kingdom’s established customs. His stance also highlights the importance of cultural identity and the need to uphold functional indigenous governance structures in the face of external influences.