EFOS BLOG

Who are the people Allah is going to make sl@ves?
What are your thoughts on this?

This is Cyprian Osaigbovo Omoruyi during work visit to Somorika in 2015. He never knew they were of same ancestry with me, being descendants from Benin warriors. He was well respected when he told them he’s a Benin guy. They treated him with so much respect and kindness as he mentioned his name.

Source: Afemai News

Why Crusoe Osagie’s Remarks on the Oba of Benin Must Be Condemned

The recent comments allegedly made by Mr. Crusoe Osagie, former media aide to ex-Governor Godwin Obaseki, regarding the role of the Oba of Benin deserves nothing short of outright condemnation. The position taken by Benin Leaders of Thought is correct, necessary, and long overdue.

1. Historical ignorance cannot be excused from a public figure*

To suggest that the Oba of Benin bears no responsibility to the people is to erase over 1000 years of history. The Benin monarchy is not a ceremonial relic. From pre-colonial times to today, the Oba has been the custodian of customs, traditions, and the moral compass of the Benin Kingdom. For an appointee of a former governor to speak so carelessly shows a dangerous gap in understanding how traditional institutions anchor our society.

1. The Oba’s role goes beyond politics*

While elected officials come and go with election cycles, the throne of the Oba remains constant. The monarch’s responsibilities include conflict resolution, cultural preservation, community development, and maintaining social cohesion. These are duties no governor’s aide can legislate away with loose commentary on an online platform. Reducing the Oba’s office to “no responsibility” ignores the daily work the Palace does in settling disputes and protecting Benin heritage.

1. The timing and context make it worse*

Linking such remarks to discussions on MOWAA and the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo only exposes the intent: using the sacred throne as a political talking point. Benin Leaders of Thought are right to call this out. Criticism of government policy must never become a vehicle for disrespecting institutions that predate the Nigerian constitution itself.

1. “Unfortunate, provocative, ill-informed” is an understatement*

For millions of Benin people at home and in the diaspora, the throne is sacred. Comments that dismiss its relevance are not just political missteps. They strike at cultural identity. Crusoe Osagie overreached by pontificating on Palace matters he clearly does not understand. Public figures, especially those who served in government, should know better than to speak ignorantly on matters of tradition.

1. Respect for institutions protects our future*

Attacking the relevance of the Oba today sets a precedent for attacking every traditional institution tomorrow. If we allow appointees and aides to diminish the throne without consequence, we weaken the very structures that keep peace in our communities when politics fails.

Benin Leaders of Thought have spoken for the conscience of the Kingdom. Crusoe Osagie’s remarks were sacrilegious, misleading, and offensive to the sensibilities of the Benin people. The throne of the Oba of Benin is not subject to the opinions of political aides. It is a symbol of unity, identity, and continuity that commands respect.

The Benin people expect a retraction and a proper apology to the Palace and to all who hold the monarchy in reverence.

Crusoe Osagie seems to be a Psychiatric patient. Let someone sane check on him.

Signed:
Mr. Osazee Amas Edobor
Coordinator General
Coalition of Benin socio cultural organizations

Mr. Influence Enobun
Secretary Coalition of Benin Socio cultural organizations