The Iyeki of Oba Market has clarified that her emergence as market head was through strict adherence to Benin customs and tradition, not political influence.

Speaking on her appointment, she revealed:

“We were 16 who went through the process, and I was the last one standing. We don’t use politics to appoint Iyeki; we follow customs.”

Her statement comes amid the ongoing debate surrounding the introduction of the Iyaloja title in Benin markets — a move the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has described as alien to Benin tradition.

The Iyeki’s remarks reaffirm the Palace’s position that market leadership in Benin is rooted in cultural legitimacy, not political appointment.