The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has convened an emergency meeting with native doctors, traditional priests, and priestesses as part of efforts to address the growing insecurity in Edo State and other parts of Nigeria.
According to a statement issued by the Benin Traditional Council (BTC), the meeting is aimed at exploring how traditional institutions can complement government efforts in tackling crime and restoring peace across affected communities.
The statement, signed by Chief Victor Nosakhare on behalf of the Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council, Frank Irabor, disclosed that the meeting will take place at the Oba's Palace in Benin City by 12 noon on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
It noted that the directive was personally issued by Oba Ewuare II and should be treated as a matter of urgency by all invited traditional religious practitioners.
According to the palace, the meeting will focus on examining ways indigenous institutions and traditional religious leaders can contribute meaningfully to ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.
The development comes amid increasing concerns over rising cases of kidnapping, cult-related violence, armed robbery, and other criminal activities in several parts of Edo State.
The worsening security situation has prompted renewed calls for stronger collaboration between government security agencies, local communities, and traditional institutions in the fight against crime.
Many observers believe the intervention by the Benin monarch underscores the enduring role of traditional rulers in promoting peace, resolving conflicts, and mobilising grassroots support for community security initiatives.
In a related development, the Benin Traditional Council announced that the Oba will also hold a separate meeting with youth leaders, popularly known as Okaighele, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
The meeting is also scheduled to take place at the Oba's Palace in Benin City at 12 noon.
According to the council, the engagement forms part of wider consultations aimed at strengthening community participation in efforts to improve public safety and address security challenges across the state.
Over the years, traditional institutions have remained influential in community affairs, particularly in conflict resolution, cultural preservation, and the maintenance of social order.
Stakeholders have continued to advocate for greater involvement of traditional rulers and indigenous institutions in security discussions, arguing that their grassroots presence could enhance intelligence gathering, community policing, and public awareness.
The latest initiative by Oba Ewuare II is widely seen as an effort to foster closer cooperation between traditional authorities and formal security agencies in the ongoing campaign against crime and insecurity.
Residents and stakeholders are expected to closely monitor the outcomes of the palace consultations and their potential impact on efforts to restore peace and stability in Edo State.