Timothy Omobude 
Coalition of Edo youth groups has reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of the Benin throne, describing it as sacred and central to the identity of the Benin people.
The group warned against insults or ridicule directed at the throne, which it said constitutes a grave cultural offence.
According to a statement signed by Mr Iyamu Osaro of the Aiguobasinmwin Movement Worldwide and Mr Uwadiae Iyoha of the Otedo Youth Union, the coalition noted that respect for the Benin monarchy transcends politics and is rooted in ancestry, tradition and heritage.
The statement comes against the backdrop of heightened tension in Edo State following the recent attack on Dr Pedro Obaseki, an incident that has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed debate over respect for Benin institutions and cultural symbols.
While the youth groups did not directly link the attack to their statement, they stressed that what they described as reckless speech and cultural arrogance must be resisted.
The groups urged residents and the wider public to choose dialogue and respect, reiterating loyalty to the Oba of Benin and calling for the preservation of peace while upholding cultural values.
Part of the statement reads, ” We, the footsoldiers of the great Benin Kingdom, wish to state this without apology or fear that the great Benin Throne is sacred and must never be insulted.
In Benin land, anyone who insults their parents is seen as acting in madness. Such behaviour is not debated, excused, or tolerated. It is rejected outrightly by the people.
UK Ancestral ‘Slap’: AMWw gift Erewele
“Let it be clearly understood that Benin people do not tolerate reckless words, loose tongues, or cultural arrogance. Anyone who crosses this line will meet the full rejection and resistance of the Benin people”.
