The Edo Market Women Association has expressed gratitude to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, for intervening in a dispute over leadership.
Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had attempted to impose a new leader, Mrs. Josephine Ebhaguejezele, on the association. However, the Oba’s timely intervention prevented this, and the association’s recognized leader, Madam Blacky Ogiamen, remains in charge.
Ogiamen led a delegation of market women on a thank-you visit to the Oba, vowing to continue resisting any attempts to impose a new leader.
The association has a long history, dating back to the reign of Oba Akenzua, and has traditionally been led by a leader chosen through a established process.
The market women had previously protested against Tinubu-Ojo’s plan, insisting that Ogiamen is the authentic chairman. They also distanced themselves from a viral video allegedly showing traders protesting against Governor Obaseki, claiming it was the work of mischief-makers.
The Oba’s intervention has been praised for maintaining peace and upholding the association’s traditions.
The market women have pledged to continue supporting the Oba and the Edo State Government.
