The Benin Traditional Council (BTC) has announced the suspension of Chief Sunny Sidney Enoma, popularly known as Enoma Igbinesigie, from his position as the Ohen-Ovia (Ovia Chief Priest) of Unuamen village in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.

In a public statement referenced BTC.A40/VOL.LVI/141 and issued on December 5, 2025 by Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the Chief Press Secretary to the Oba, the Council said His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, approved the suspension following what it described as Enoma’s “unbecoming attitude that undermines Benin customs and traditions.”

The Council emphasised that within the Benin Kingdom, all chieftaincy titles originate from and are conferred solely by the Oba of Benin, warning the general public to disregard any claims to the contrary.

It particularly faulted Enoma’s assertion that he is responsible for installing the Okao of Unuamen, describing the claim as “baseless, unfounded and an abomination” against the revered traditional order.

The BTC further clarified that only the Oba possesses the authority to appoint or install traditional heads in any part of the kingdom.

In the same statement, His Royal Majesty reaffirmed Chief Kingsley N. Igbinosa as the legitimate Okao (traditional head) of Unuamen, urging the community and the public to take note and respect the pronouncement.

The statement reiterated the Palace’s commitment to preserving the sanctity of Benin customs, stating. (Nigerian Tribune)

Update news