BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE
BENIN – OBA of Benin, Omo N’ Edo Oba Ewuare II, yesterday disclosed that the activities of herdsmen in his kingdom was being investigated with the assistance of security agents.

He also unveiled his plans to establish farms in several communities across the Benin Kingdom, saying that produce from the farms would be sold to low income earners at prices lower than prevailing market prices.

Oba Ewuare 11, who disclosed those at his first enlarged meeting with his people at his palace, told them that his ascension to the throne was a sign of good things to come to the kingdom.

He said the aim of the meeting was to discuss way forward for the kingdom and the general welfare Oba Ewuare II who announced the dissolution of all panels set up by Palace Chiefs to settle dispute said decision of many panels were found to be biased.

He warned Chiefs not to turn the palace to business centers by selling justice to the highest bidder.

He condemned activities of Community Development Association (CDAs) saying youths have become terror in their communities.

His Royal Majesty, Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin holds his staff of office, after his coronation.

He frowned at the current situation where the CDAs chairmen are custodian of community land instead of the Enogie, Odionwere or Ohen (Chief Priest).

“The Oba has land in all the villages and we plan to reintroduce Ugbo Oba (Oba Farms). People will work there and the produce from the farms will be sold at special markets at reduce prices to the poor.

“A Committee to be set up will ensure that only the poor have access to buy things from the special markets.

“The era of injustice being perpetrated by some Chiefs in the past will not be entertained. Chiefs who will deliberate on matters relating to land crisis will not be men of questionable characters.

“Youths who encroach on land or grab other people’s land will be dealt with”, he said.