The Palace, also announced a separate meeting with youth leaders, known as Okaighele, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, at the same venue.

Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has summoned Native Doctors, Priests, and Priestesses across the Benin Kingdom to an emergency meeting as concerns grow over kidnapping, cult-related violence, and other security challenges in Edo State.

According to TheInsightLensProject, the meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City, signaling a fresh traditional intervention aimed at supporting ongoing government efforts to restore peace and order.

In an official statement issued through the Benin Traditional Council, the Monarch directed all Traditional Healers and Spiritual Leaders, identified as Igiohen N’ Ikpia and Igiohen N’ Ikhuo, to attend the gathering at Ugha Ozolua by noon.

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The statement, signed by Chief Victor Nosakhare on behalf of the Council’s Secretary, Frank Irabor, described the meeting as part of efforts to explore traditional and strategic measures that could complement existing security operations in Edo State and across Nigeria.

The Palace, also announced a separate meeting with youth leaders, known as Okaighele, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, at the same venue.

The decision comes amid increasing public concern over insecurity in parts of Edo State, where cases of kidnapping, cult clashes, and violent crimes have continued to attract attention despite intensified security operations by Government Agencies.

According to the Benin Traditional Council, the initiative is intended to mobilize influential traditional institutions that remain deeply respected within local communities.

Palace officials said the Oba believes indigenous structures can play a supportive role in strengthening community vigilance, promoting social order, and discouraging criminal activities alongside conventional law enforcement measures.

The move is consistent with Oba Ewuare II’s previous interventions on major social issues.

In 2018, the Monarch convened Traditional Priests, Chiefs, and Native Doctors to revoke oath-taking practices linked to human trafficking networks. The action drew national and international attention and was widely viewed as a significant cultural response to a long-standing problem that had affected many families in Edo State.

While details of the upcoming meetings have not been fully disclosed, the development highlights the continuing influence of traditional institutions in addressing contemporary challenges.

As authorities intensify security efforts across Edo State and other parts of the country, attention is now turning to the Palace meetings and whether traditional leaders can help strengthen community-based responses to crime and insecurity.

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