The Benin Traditional Council has cautioned communities against setting up illegal structures as shrines or ogua-edion (elders’ porches) without the approval of the council.
According to the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewaure II, setting up structures without approval was an affront on the council.
The monarch, who spoke through his spokesman, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, particularly warned Ago Okhiaro and Isibor camps in Evbuotubu village in Egor LGA to desist from flouting the council’s directives.
He said, “Traditionally, authorisation of building a shrine in a village must come from the Oba of Benin who is the custodian of Benin customs and traditions.
“Shrines built without the Oba of Benin’s approval would be deemed as being in “non-conformity with Benin customs and traditions, as well as an affront on the palace.”
He further said such structures would not be allowed to serve as impediment on the sanctity of Benin customs and traditions.