Oba of Benin,Ewuare II, has suspended a group known as Isikhuan royal praise singers indefinitely over an alleged breach of palace rules and tradition.

In a statement by Osaigbovo Iguobar, the Chief Press Secretary to the Oba, the group allegedly breached an ancient Benin taboo by staging a traditional performance—one exclusively reserved for the Oba—at the residence of Chief Gabriel Osawuaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin kingdom.

According to the statement, Oba Ewuare also stripped the leader of the group, Juliet Omogui, of her traditional title known as Okao.

The statement stated that the Benin monarch’s decision was conveyed by the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, during an emergency meeting at the palace on Sunday, where members of the group were given the opportunity to explain their involvement and their roles in the act.

Chief Idah, joined by Chief Ada Igbinovia (Eribo N’ Ibiwe), Chief Imade Osamuyi Amos (Oshodi N’ Ibiwe), Chief Enoma Ogiesughe (Ogiesughe N’ Ewaise), and other palace chiefs, expressed dismay over the height of disrespect to the Benin monarchy.

Chief Idah wondered why Chief Igbinedion permitted the Isikhuan group to perform in his honour, given his deep understanding of Benin’s sacred customs and tradition, which he had vowed to uphold.

The statement disclosed that the leader in question —Omogui— publicly admitted to the allegation captured in a viral video on the internet. She was mandated to return the traditional headgear (Okuku) in her custody to the palace, pending further directives by the Oba.