The Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II, on Friday unveiled plans to establish farms in several communities across the Benin Kingdom.
Oba Ewuare II said produce from the farms would be sold to low income earners at prices lower than prevailing market prices.
Speaking at his first enlarged meeting with his people at his palace, Oba Ewuare II told the people that his ascension to the throne was a sign of good things to come to the kingdom.
Oba Ewuare II said the aim of the meeting was to discuss way forward for the kingdom and the general welfare.
The Oba told the people that activities of Fulani herdsmen in the kingdom were being investigated through the help of security agencies.
Oba Ewuare II, who announced the dissolution of all panels set up by palace chiefs to settle disputes, said decision of many panels were found to be biased.
He warned chiefs not to turn the palace to business centres by selling justice to the highest bidder.
Oba Ewuare II condemned activities of community development association (CDAs), saying the youths have become terror in their communities.
He frowned at the current situation where the CDAs chairmen were custodians of community lands instead of the Enogie, Odionwere or Ohen (chief priest).
According to him, “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 land will be dealt with.”
(Tribune)
