The Bini Awareness Group, have tackled Governor Godwin Obaseki over the ban of the activities of the Okaghele saying such move was an attempt to distort our rich cultural heritage of the Edo people.
A statement released by the group on 18th June 2024 and signed by Eribo Edosa, the
Secretary, stated that the move is also an affront to history and an embarrassment to all Edo South indigenes.
The group which lamented the lack of infrastructural development in their area despite their contributions to the Edo polity, advised Gov. Obaseki and his cabinet to work towards the unity of the state rather than their present effort to divide the people.
Read the statement…
“We, the members and executive committee (EXCO) of Bini Awareness Group, are compelled to speak out against the divisive actions of the outgoing Governor Obaseki of our dear state, Edo. His attempt to distort our rich cultural heritage by labeling Okaghele, a cherished tradition, as a cultist activity is unacceptable. This move is an affront to our history and an embarrassment to all Edo South indigenes.
We also hold responsible the Chief of Staff, Mr. Iyoha, and the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Ogie, as well as other Binis in the Governor’s cabinet, for their inaction and silence in the face of this assault on our heritage. Their complicity and failure to speak out against these actions are a betrayal of the trust placed in them to represent our interests.
Furthermore, we are dismayed by the lack of infrastructural development in our region, despite our significant contributions to the state’s economy. We demand better governance and development for Edo South.
We urge Governor Obaseki, Mr. Iyoha, Mr. Ogie, and all Binis in his cabinet to:
- Respect and preserve our cultural heritage
- Address the infrastructural deficits in Edo South
- Work towards uniting our communities, rather than dividing them
We stand united in our commitment to promoting and celebrating our Bini culture and heritage.
Eribo Edosa
Secretary, Bini Awareness Group“
