Ovbokhan Igbinovia, the recently deposed traditional priest (Ohen) of Okhuoromi community in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, was arrested on Saturday by police operatives for alleged possession of illegal firearms, ammunition, and a suspected human skull.

 

The 43-year-old was removed from his position last Thursday by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, following serious allegations of abominable acts, including land-grabbing, extortion, and the unauthorised demolition of private properties.

 

According to Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, the arrest was carried out during a sting operation led by the Command’s Intelligence and Rapid Response Squad in collaboration with the Anti-Kidnapping Squad. Four others — Osarodion Omoregie (41), Charles Otasowei (55), Edwin Igbinovia (45), and Osagie Igbinovia (44) — were also apprehended.

 

Items recovered from the operation included two AK-47 rifles (bearing serial numbers TH4782 and 6683), two locally made single-barrel shotguns, three empty AK-47 magazines, one OFM magazine, 11 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a suspected human skull.

 

Yamu stated that investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway to recover more weapons and arrest fleeing accomplices. Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, reassured residents of the Command’s resolve to root out criminal elements and ensure public safety.

 

The arrest followed Igbinovia’s dethronement by Oba Ewuare II, who condemned his actions as violations of Benin customs and law. The Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, announced the Oba’s decision to the elders of Okhuoromi and transferred community leadership to the Odionwere, Pa Oghagbon Edosomwan.

 

At a palace meeting attended by senior chiefs including Isaac Oyeoba and Uyi Okungbowa, the Obazelu warned that anyone challenging the Oba’s directive would face legal and traditional sanctions. He emphasized the palace’s disapproval of lawlessness and pledged justice for all victims affected by the deposed priest’s alleged actions.

 

The Oba also disclosed that a delegation of palace chiefs had been assigned to investigate the extent of damage in Okhuoromi. He urged affected individuals to submit their complaints, along with photos or video evidence, to the appropriate authorities.