The Edo State Government on Thursday denied instituting a court case with the Oba of Benin.
Reports on social media suggest that there is a current court case initiated by the state government against the Oba.
Crusoe Osagie, a media aide to Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, advised the public to disregard the reports.
On Thursday, the Oba of Benin appeared at the Edo State High Court, after two suspended dukes Gregory Akenzua and Edomwonyi Iduozee Ogiegbaen instituted a legal action against the monarch challenging their suspension from office.
They claimed that it was only the state governor and not the monarch that could remove them from their positions.
The case which reportedly came up for mention in March was adjourned till 9th May.
The suspended dukes claimed that their appointment was recognised by the Edo State Government and captured under Section 25(2) of the Traditional Rulers and Chieftaincy Law.
The state government has, however, come out to distance itself from the ongoing case.
“The Edo State Government has no case in court against our revered Royal Father, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin,” Osagie said.
“The rumour making the rounds on social media of an impending court case is the handiwork of enemies of the State and should be disregarded.
“As a matter of fact, in the matter being referenced by the purveyors of the fake news, the Edo State Government is a defendant, which means the State government is being sued.
“The State Government maintains a cordial relationship with the Royal Palace and holds the Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, Ogidigan, in high esteem.”
