ByIduozee Paul, Benin
The Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, ObaEwuare 11, has decried the increased involvement of Benin people in humantrafficking and irregular migration. He also lamented the decline in the speakingof Bini language, folklores, songs and dances.
The Monarch bared his mind through the lyase of BeninKingdom, Chief Sam lgbe, in a chat with the Odionwere, chiefs, Enigies,lgie–Ohen, women, men and youths, at the Oba Palace, Benin city.
He said, with the advent of western culture Bini languageand norms are gradually going into extinction and called on the chiefs, parentsand teachers to educate and teach their children these Benin cultural heritageat home and school to make them know how to use it.
“There is a decline in the speaking of Bini language aswell as the practice of Benin folk songs and dances. Parents are to teach theirfamily greetings, its origin and vitality in order for it not to go intoextinction.”
The Oba pointedout that people no longer visit the Emotan shrine during burial ceremoniesstressing that the religion one professes does not prevent practicing his orher culture and traditions. “Family greetings help to identify the lineage ofevery Bini person”.
He expressed worry that youths are embracing vices ratherthan acquiring skills.
“The youths do not want to work or learn tradeagain; such as mechanic, welder, carpentery, brick-laying, only for them to beengaging in activities that are not dignifying,” the Oba added.
Oba Ewuare 11,also used forum to remind Odionweres and Enigies that, there should not be anyencroachment into Palace land in their different villages, as they hold it intrust for the Oba.
Responding, Elder Osadebamwen Omorodiion, from lguomonvillage and Daniel Omorogieva from lkhueniro, and others that spoke thanked theOba for re-awakening the cultural heritage of Benin kingdom and vowed to carry the message of Omo N’ Obato their people.
