Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has annulled the traditional councils created in the Edo South senatorial district by his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki. The Governor also reinstated the statutory financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) and restored the administrative structure that existed before the councils’ establishment.

The announcement, made in a statement on Sunday by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, confirmed the administration’s decision to reverse policies deemed inconsistent with Edo’s traditional heritage.

“The administration hereby abolishes the new traditional councils in Edo South, created by the last administration,” the statement read. “Governor Okpebholo has restored the statutory financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council and has ordered that the status quo before the creation of the now-abolished councils be maintained.”

Governor Okpebholo also reaffirmed the Oba of Benin’s authority as the custodian of ancient artefacts looted during the 1897 Benin Massacre, aligning with the Federal Government’s Official Gazette No. 57, Volume 110. This document formally designates the Oba of Benin as the rightful owner of the repatriated artefacts.

Additionally, the Governor overturned the previous administration’s revocation of the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre’s concession, pledging to restore the facility for its original cultural purposes. Governor Okpebholo further distanced his government from the Museum of West African Art (MOWA), a project supported by the former administration, instead endorsing the Benin Royal Museum as the repository for returned artefacts.

“Governor Okpebholo respects the rights and privileges of the traditional ruler of the Benin Kingdom, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, and pledges to ensure the monarch continues as the custodian of the cultural heritage of the Benin people,” the statement emphasized.

The Governor assured that his administration would not interfere in the internal affairs of the Benin Traditional Council and committed to restoring any remaining statutory rights of the Oba of Benin not explicitly addressed.

These actions reflect Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to preserving Edo’s traditional heritage and mending relations with the Benin royal institution after perceived disruptions under the previous administration.