Michael Osarenren Igbinedion, the son of renowned industrialist and Esama of the Benin Kingdom, Sir Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion was amongst the dignitaries who were recently initiated into the highly reverend Elders council of the Okada in Ovia North East Local Government Area in Edo South district of the state.
And, as a testament to the popular saying, “Any child who washes his hands well will dine with the elders,” Mr Igbinedion recognition brings him closer to becoming an Odionwere, the eldest and the most senior person in the community, in the future.
In Benin culture, an Odionwere is selected from among the Edion’s, based on seniority.
Consequently, an Edion is expected to exemplify wisdom and integrity while also serving as the custodian of the customs, culture, and traditions of the people.
The induction ceremony itself was a colourful spectacle, reminiscent of a similar celebration held about three decades ago.
It attracted a large crowd of dignitaries from both near and far, including notable elites and those from distant corners of the diaspora, all united in a common purpose: to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Okada community in the North East local government area of Edo State
Even the first-time attendees were captivated by the array of exotic and contemporary displays of Benin culture.
The event highlighted the organized structure of Benin society and the roles played by different age grades within that socio-cultural context.
Men are organized into age grades, typically with only a few years of difference between them.
Regarding his induction, Mr. Igbinedion, widely seen as an embodiment of Benin culture, expressed his gratitude to the Elders Council, noting that the event marked a significant turning point in his life.
He also acknowledged that this induction would impose greater responsibilities on him, particularly in promoting and preserving the customs and traditions of the Benin Kingdom.
However, he remains hopeful about fulfilling his responsibilities and upholding the age-old traditions of the people.
A lawyer by training, Mike Igbinedion (Esq), has also established a lot of businesses in addition to his legal practice to create employment for the teeming youths.
All the inductees wore the traditional white regalia common among the Bini people.
One by one, they underwent a series of rituals.
Afterwards, they received blessings from the Odionwere of the Okada community, Pa Samson Idehen, who also ensured they assumed their rightful positions among the elders.
Pa Idehen spoke on behalf of the Elders Council, reminded them that their induction represented a sacred call to duty and also encouraged them to regard their new status as a “privilege.”
He further emphasized that they are expected to demonstrate a high level of integrity, wisdom, and exceptional leadership in fulfilling these responsibilities.
Highlighting the vital role of the Elders Council, Pa Idehen urged the inductees to view themselves as cultural ambassadors tasked with promoting and preserving the customs, traditions, and culture of their people for future generations.
