Controversy Trails Installation of Edo Iyaloja by Tinubu’s Daughter

Tensions have escalated in Benin following the installation of Pastor Josephine Ibhaguezejele as Iyaloja of Edo State by Mrs. Folashade Ojo-Tinubu, daughter of President Bola Tinubu and Iyaloja-General of the Market Women Association.

The controversy revolves around the legitimacy of the title “Iyaloja of Edo State,” its absence in Benin tradition, and the process of selection. Concerns over politicisation have also deepened the dispute.

The dispute gained prominence after the September 21, 2024 governorship election, when traders opposed moves to replace Mrs. Blacky Ogiamen, the then head of market women in Edo. Earlier in July, Ogiamen had accused political interests of trying to remove her, despite Oba Ewuare II declaring the title of “head of market women” non-existent, explaining that each market has its own Iye’ki who represents the palace.

Ogiamen was also accused of aligning politically with former Governor Godwin Obaseki and supporting PDP candidate Asue Ighodalo during the election.

Weeks later, members of the Edo State Market Women Association (ESMWA) staged protests against Ibhaguezejele’s installation, describing it as “a taboo” and “a negation of Benin tradition.” In a statement signed by Florence Ahunwan and five others, the women said:
“It is an injustice where a non-Benin, with no inclination to our customs, has been imposed to oversee markets in Benin City and Edo State.”

They alleged that the appointment was politically influenced by government officials and Ojo-Tinubu.

Ibhaguezejele’s Response
Pastor Ibhaguezejele dismissed the protests as politically motivated and claimed the demonstrators were not part of her association. She noted that her inauguration was attended by leaders from 151 of 152 markets in Edo, and insisted the position had been vacant for 12 years.

Mrs. Ojo-Tinubu, at the event, also maintained that “no one was displaced” as the position had long been unoccupied. Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented at the ceremony, pledged support for women’s empowerment and family stability, stating:
“Our vision is to promote thriving marketplaces where peace, fairness, and mutual support form the foundation of commerce. Women remain the heartbeat of Edo’s economy.”

Oba of Benin Rejects Iyaloja Title
Oba Ewuare II, however, rejected the title of Iyaloja as alien to Benin tradition, stating:
“Iyaloja is alien to us in Benin. Here, every market has its Iye’ki, who performs cultural roles for the palace. The Oba does not interfere as long as the Iye’ki performs her duties.”

Chief Osaro Idah, on behalf of the Oba, reiterated that the idea of a “general Iye’ki” or “Iyaloja-General” does not exist in Benin custom.

Reactions Continue
Cultural and political groups, including the Aiguobasomwin Movement Worldwide, also rejected the installation, stressing that only Benin women can be Iye’ki. Former Senator Ehigie Uzamere argued that market leadership is a sacred traditional institution under the Oba, not politics, while activist-lawyer Jefferson Uwoghiren warned the state government to de-escalate tensions.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), through its Publicity Secretary Dan Osa-Ogbegie, also condemned the move.

As of press time, the Edo State government had yet to issue an official response, as the debate over the controversial installation continues to stir strong reactions in Benin and beyond.