Breaking News: Oba of Benin is Dead - See Details of How He Died

The Oba of Benin, Omo n’Oba Erediauwa Akpolokpolo I, has been reported dead. His death was announced few minutes ago by the Iyase of Benin Kingdom, Chief Sam Igbe. 

Sources report that the late monarch has been battling an unknown illness since last year.

The Benin Traditional Council‎ formally announced the translation of the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba n’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa, to his ancestors on Friday, April 29.

His translation was announced by the Prime Minister and Iyase of Benin Kingdom, Chief Sam Igbe, in the presence of other traditional Chiefs and Enigie (Dukes), with the traditional braking of native chalk at the entrance of the palace.

While announcing the translation, the Iyase‎ said: “Osorhue Bunrun. Oba Erediauwa of Benin Kingdom, the Prince if Peace, Ebo, Ayemwirhe, emini mini mini, has returned with his ancestors. May he find perfect peace with God.”

A Naij correspondent in Benin reports that following the breaking of the native chalk at the main entrance of the palace, all the chiefs broke down in tears and wailed for the translated Monarch.

In accordance with the Benin traditional mourning rites for a translated Monarch, every male in the kingdom is expected to shave his head throughout the mourning period that may last for up to three months, while all markets in the kingdom are to remain closed for about seven days.