Seeking forgiveness from the Oba of Benin, Alhaji Danjuma Garba Binkola, who was set to be installed as “Garkuwan Hausawan Benin” in Edo State, has made a plea for clemency.
According to reports from NewsNow, Alhaji Danjuma Garba Binkola was slated for installation as “Garkuwan Hausawan Benin” by Alhaji Adamu Isa Adamu, who identified himself as His Royal Highness and the “Sarkin Hausawa.”
The planned installation was arranged for Sunday, May 5, 2024, at No. 7 Butcher Street, off Mission Road, Benin City.
Additionally, NewsNow recollects that the Benin Traditional Council, in a letter endorsed by Chief Sam Igbe, the Iyase of Benin Kingdom, on Thursday, opposed the proposed installation.
In the letter dated April 18, 2024, entitled “Denunciation of Plan to Hold a Turbaning Ceremony in Benin City,” directives were given to the Inspector-General of Police, Commissioner of Police of the Edo State Police Command, and Director of the Edo State Command of the Department of State Service.
In a viral video alongside some companions, Binkola entreated the Benin monarch for forgiveness, clarifying that he had underestimated the weight of the forthcoming installation.
Communicating in pidgin English, he recounted that his father, Alhaji Garuba, hailed from and grew up in Benin.
Further mentioning that he was also born and raised in Benin City, he underscored his familiarity with the people’s customs and traditions owing to his prolonged residency in Benin.
“I was unaware of the implications of my actions. The individual who was supposed to bestow the title upon me merely informed me that my duty was to assist him in supervising the Hausa community’s affairs in Edo State and report back to the palace.
“I implore the Oba of Benin, our esteemed father, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, to grant me forgiveness. Edo State holds a special place in my heart, and thus, I cannot contravene the land’s customs and practices,” he expressed.