This comes despite opposition from the Oba of Benin Palace, which had voiced its disapproval on June 7, 2024. Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin, speaking on behalf of the monarch, stated that Okaighele is an integral part of the Benin ancestral tradition and cannot be banned by fiat. He explained that Okaighele plays a crucial role in the traditional administrative structure, assisting village heads (Odionwere) in daily governance.

"Okaighele didn’t start in this century. As you have age grades and senior sons, so we have them. When Odionwere (village head) is appointed by the Oba, Okaighele assists the Odionwere in the daily administration of the domain," Idah said.

In response, the Edo State Government emphasized that the ban on Okaighele and cultists is a necessary measure for public safety. Chris Nehikhare, Commissioner for Orientation and Communication, clarified that this decision was driven by data from the Edo State Security Council, which identified these groups as significant threats to the state's security and stability.

"The Edo State Security Council data has shown that these two groups (Okaigheles and cultists) pose the most severe threat to the security and stability of the State, resulting in the decision of the Council to place a total ban on the criminal groups," Nehikhare stated.

He further stressed that while the government respects the traditions and customs of the communities, the safety and security of citizens must always come first. Nehikhare dismissed Chief Osaro Idah’s comments as contradictory and reaffirmed the government's commitment to enforcing the ban.

"We stand by our decision to enforce this ban on Okaigheles to protect the lives of our people," Nehikhare asserted. He warned that the government would not tolerate any attempts to undermine the efforts of the State Security Council, ensuring that those who flout the ban will face the full weight of the law.