The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has summoned native doctors, traditional priests and priestesses to discuss the worsening insecurity crisis in Edo State and Nigeria.
The Benin Traditional Council announced the meeting in a statement signed by Victor Nosakhare on behalf of the council’s Secretary, Frank Irabor, on Friday. The meeting will be held at 12 pm on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the Oba’s Palace.
The palace said the meeting follows the directive of Oba Ewuare II and must receive urgent attention. It added that the gathering aims to explore traditional ways to support government efforts against insecurity.
The Benin Traditional Council will meet youth leaders, known as Okaighele, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at the same time and venue.
108scoop.com reports that the move shows the palace’s interest in supporting security agencies as kidnapping and cult-related violence continue to affect Edo State.
The development has renewed discussions about the role of traditionalists in tackling insecurity.
Some Nigerians have questioned why groups linked with spiritual powers have not played a visible role in helping communities affected by kidnappings and violent crimes.
In response, others argue that such claims remain matters of belief and tradition. They insist that security challenges require practical steps from law enforcement agencies and government institutions.
For more than 15 years, insecurity in Nigeria has continued to affect millions of citizens. Kidnappings, bandit attacks, terrorism and other violent crimes have placed pressure on security agencies.
The debate over the role of traditional beliefs in modern society continues. Many Nigerians remain divided on whether traditionalists, witches and other groups should contribute to efforts aimed at ending insecurity and helping abducted victims reunite with their families.
Sources
Benin Traditional Council
Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation
