Over 100 priests, priestesses, and palace chiefs made a dramatic entrance at the Edo State High Court, vocalizing curses against the adversaries of the Oba during the resumed hearing of a case brought by suspended Enigie (Dukes) in Benin against Oba Ewuare II. The suspended Enigie, Prof Gregory Akenzua and Chief Edomwonyi Ogiegbaen, along with others, filed a lawsuit against the monarch, contesting their suspension from offices. They argued that only the State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, had the authority to remove them from their positions, not the monarch who had suspended them for challenging his authority.

During the proceedings, the High Court accepted the Benin Traditional Council as a party in the suit, marked B/250os/2023. The court granted the first defendant's application, represented by Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN, to include the council as the third defendant. This decision came after objections from the claimants' counsels, Dr. Osagie Obayuwana, representing Prof. Gregory Akenzua and Edomwonyi Ogiegbaen.

Justice Peter Akhihiero directed all parties involved to amend their relevant documents to reflect the decision. Despite objections from the claimants, the court ruled in favor of including the Traditional Council, emphasizing the importance of a fair process. The hearing was adjourned until July 15, 2024.

The court premises saw a heavy security presence, with supporters of the Oba not permitted inside due to their large numbers. Despite this, various groups, including members of the royal family and chiefs, expressed solidarity with the Oba outside the court.

Throughout the proceedings, tensions remained high as legal battles intertwined with cultural and traditional allegiances, reflecting the complexities of governance and authority within the Benin Kingdom.

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