The governorship candidate of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo state, Mr. Asuen Ighodalo, hails from Edo Central Senatorial District but has familial connections to Ile-Ife royalty, as he recently revealed in an interview.
“I am a traditionalist,” Asuen declared. “On my mother’s side, my cousin is the Oni of Ife. So, the present Oni of Ife is my cousin. I am a full traditionalist and I respect the instructions of the Oba fully. The Oba remains our father, and I know that the present Governor also respects the institution of the Oba. But people have different ways of approaching things. So, I will definitely have a great working relationship with our father, the Oba of Benin, and all our traditional rulers across the state,” he explained when asked about his plans regarding the relationship between Governor Godwin Obaseki, the Benin artefacts and the Oba of Benin.
“I am not a stranger to traditional institutions; they are necessary and peculiar to Nigeria, helping to salvage our culture and values. They will be the fulcrum for tourism in our government,” he added.
Regarding the issue of artefacts, Asuen stated, “I think I need to take time to study extensively what the issues are. I don’t think there are major dividing issues. Those artefacts that belong to the palace will go back to the palace, and those that do not belong to the palace will go where they belong. But I will ask questions. My work is to ask. As a lawyer, I will investigate and ask questions, but that’s the way I see it, and that’s my approach to it.”
However, some concerns arise from Asuen’s statements. Given his involvement with the Comrade Adams Oshiomhole’s and Governor Obaseki’s administrations for a period of 15 years, during which he served as Chief Economic Adviser to Governor Obaseki, one might question his apparent lack of awareness regarding the Benin artefacts crisis. If he is aware, why does he plan to ask questions rather than provide detailed solutions? Is his intention to transfer artefacts not for the palace to the Museum of West Africa Art (EMOWAA)? Rumor has it that Mr. Philip Iheanacho, the Executive Chairman of Obaseki’s EMOWAA Trust, is a confidant of Asuen, raising concerns about their plans for the artefacts.
It is essential to emphasize that all artefacts belong to the palace, and investigating them to determine their rightful place indicates a potential conflict with the palace. Asuen must understand that the Benin artefacts are non-negotiable, and any attempt to divert them from the palace will be met with resistance. His association with Obaseki’s controversial handling of the artefacts issue raises questions about his independence and commitment to the preservation of Benin’s cultural heritage. Or else, Asuen should tell Edo people his role in the Obaseki/Oba of Benin artefact crisis.
Let me summarise that Asuen’s remarks regarding traditional institutions and artefacts warrant scrutiny. Edo people must demand clarity and accountability from their leaders, especially concerning matters of cultural significance. Asuen does not look like a candidate who will prioritize the interests of the palace and the people of Edo state above personal or political agendas to ensure a harmonious and prosperous future for all.
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