Alhaji Danjuma Garba Binkola, who was to be installed as “Garkuwan Hausawan Benin” in Edo State, has begged for forgiveness from the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II.
Arogidigba Global Journal reports that Alhaji Danjuma Garba Binkola was to be installed as “Garkuwan Hausawan Benin” by one Alhaji Adamu Isa Adamu, who described himself as His Royal Highness and the “Sarkin Hausawa.”
The installation was scheduled for Sunday, May 5, 2024, at No. 7 Butcher Street, off Mission Road, Benin City.
Arogidigba Global Journal also recalls that the Benin Traditional Council on Thursday, in a letter signed by Chief Sam Igbe, the Iyase of Benin Kingdom, kicked against the planned installation.
The letter dated April 18, 2024, titled “Denunciation of Plan to Hold a Turbaning Ceremony in Benin City,” was addressed 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.
Binkola, in a viral video with some friends, appealed to the Benin monarch for mercy, noting that he was not aware of the magnitude of the planned installation.
Speaking pidgin English, he said his father, Alhaji Garuba, was born and brought up in Benin.
While adding that he was also born and brought up in Benin City, he noted that he knows the traditions and customs of the people of the state based on his long stay in Benin.
“I didn’t know the implications of my actions. The person who was to confer the title on me only told me that my role was to assist him oversee the activities of the Hausa community in Edo State and communicate back to the palace.
“I beg the Oba of Benin, our father, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, to forgive me. Edo State is good for me, and as a result, I cannot go against the customs and traditions of the land,” he said.