The Benin Royal Family announced on Monday the suspension of Professor Gregory Akenzua, citing “acts of rebellion against the Benin Traditional Institution.”
News About Nigeria reports that Akenzua, an uncle to the Oba of Benin and the suspended Enogie (Duke) of the Evbo-Obanosa community in Orhiomwon Local Government Area of Edo State, is currently in court seeking legal redress over his suspension.
During a press conference at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) secretariat in Benin City, Prince George Eweka read a statement on behalf of the Royal Family.
The statement declared that no member of the royal family should have any dealings with Professor Akenzua as directed by the family.
“Professor Akenzua has chosen to challenge the Benin Traditional Institution through acts that are utterly at variance with the customs and traditions of the Benin people, and the core values of the Benin Royal Family,” the statement read.
It further criticised Akenzua for betraying the values of respect, devotion, and submission to the Benin customs and hierarchy, and for his refusal to engage in customary arbitration processes.
The Royal Family said that the Oba of Benin holds a unique position as the father of every member of the Benin Royal Family, regardless of age.
The family rejected Akenzua’s self-proclaimed title of Odion Egbe, saying that he does not have the right to the position due to his lower rank in the hierarchy.
“The Royal Family has given ample opportunities to Professor Akenzua to retrace his steps and return to the path of honour and dignity,” the statement continued.
“He has snubbed and rejected the opportunities provided by the Royal Family for him to retrace his wrongful steps.”
As a result, the Royal Family reaffirmed Akenzua’s suspension and prohibited him from participating in any activities related to the Benin Royal Family.
Members of the family were also “strongly directed not to relate, associate, or engage with Professor Akenzua as long as he remains suspended.”
