On Tuesday, September 30th, 2025, the ancient city of Benin witnessed an historic moment as the Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Chief Dr. Mujidat Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, visited Edo State to formally inaugurate market leadership across the region.
Upon arrival in Edo State, the Iyaloja-General was warmly received by the Governor, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady Edo State, Her Excellency Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani. The state government commended the Iyaloja-General for her visionary leadership and for putting in place the structures necessary to engage the grassroots—particularly market traders—across the state.
Following the passing of the former Iyeki of Edo State over 13 years ago, the leadership seat for market traders had remained vacant. In recent times, calls from various quarters urged the installation of new leadership to restore peace and harmony in the markets statewide.
In response, Mrs. Josephine Ehis Ibhaguezejele was unanimously adopted by Edo State market leaders as the state Iyeki. They sought the endorsement and blessing of the Iyaloja-General and requested that she led the newly inaugurated leadership to the palace of the Oba of Benin for royal recognition.
Shortly after the inauguration, Chief Tinubu-Ojo led the inaugurated market leaders to the palace of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, to receive his fatherly and monarchial blessing.
The Oba, in the company of his revered high chiefs, warmly welcomed the delegation. He tasked one of the chiefs to enlighten the newly inaugurated Iyekis on their sacred roles as custodians of Benin culture and traditions. The Oba emphasized that certain cultural practices tied to market communities must be upheld in alignment with palace directives.
Expressing gratitude to the Iyaloja-General and the state government, the Oba commended the initiative as a significant stride in women’s empowerment and sociocultural development. He urged the new leaders to uphold the cultural values of Benin Kingdom with dignity and dedication.
Highlighting the importance of the visit, the Oba noted that he had excused himself from critical engagements both within and outside the state to personally receive the Iyaloja-General and the market leaders.
In a gesture of unity and reverence, the Oba posed for photographs with the market leaders to commemorate the historic occasion.
God Bless Edo State
God bless His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II
God bless the Benin Kingdom
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Prince Emmanuel Odunayo Ikusagba reporting for Iyaloja-General’s Media
