His Royal Highness, Oba Raphael Alufah (Olowe III), Elekor of Ekor in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, shares his journey to the throne, the cultural richness of Ekor, and the principles guiding leadership in his community.
About the Kingdom
Ekor is a town under the Okpameri ethnic nationality in Akoko Edo, Edo North. The community traces its roots to Benin, with Ihiekor as the first settler and original Oba. The kingship lineage passed from Ihiekor to Oba Alufah’s grandfather, then his father, and now him—hence the title Olowe III.
Ruling Houses
Ekor has four quarters, each with a recognized ruling house:
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Afeoka Quarter – Olowe (Oba Alufah's house)
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Afenari Quarter – Angulu
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Afeozo Quarter – Ajogun
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Afuduavor Quarter – Obanaye (ancestral origin of the first Oba)
The kingship rotates among these houses without dispute.
Coronation and Leadership Journey
Oba Alufah was installed as Oba on December 20, 2015, and officially crowned on December 28, 2018. The event was attended by notable traditional rulers and featured cultural performances, gun salutes, and overwhelming support from the community.
Leadership, he says, requires deep understanding. He communicates in the native language to foster clarity and unity. Born and raised in Ekor, his familiarity with the people and culture aids his leadership.
Role of Education
Education, according to Oba Alufah, has given him the wisdom to lead effectively. He advocates strongly for education in his community, supporting bright students through a special fund inspired by the legacy of Obafemi Awolowo.
Childhood and Selection
Despite being the youngest child, he was chosen as Oba—surprising even himself. His older brothers have been supportive. His grandfather lived over 120 years, and his father reached 100. The early passing of the last Oba prompted the community to seek ancestral guidance, leading to his selection.
Taboos and Traditions
Ekor has strict traditional laws. Adultery—particularly sleeping with another man's wife—is a serious taboo punishable by banishment. Internet fraud (“Yahoo Yahoo”) is also condemned. Witchcraft is not tolerated; confirmed witches are buried in evil forests, and their graves remain unknown to their children.
Cultural Festivals
The Ikpihionua Festival—held every seven years in honor of men—is the town's most significant. Special masquerades appear, including Erimerio from Oba Alufah’s quarter, which blesses the people and disappears until the next celebration.
The Ele Festival, celebrated for women, includes dance, worship at a shrine, and elegant displays of culture.
Religious Harmony and Hospitality
Though a Christian, Oba Alufah joins Muslims in fasting during Ramadan and provides support for them. He also relates respectfully with traditionalists, fostering peace across faiths.
Ekor welcomes non-indigenes, particularly farmers like the Ebira people, who now reside and own property in the community. Inter-ethnic cooperation is common, including farm group collaborations.
Community Conduct and Security
Stealing is not tolerated. Offenders are expelled, though the palace also discourages jungle justice. Civil disputes are handled locally, while criminal matters are referred to security agencies. A vigilante group supports law enforcement.
Fake Royalty and Governance Challenges
Oba Alufah cautions against impersonators, affirming that true monarchs are recognized by both government and people. Any attempt to create parallel leadership is a legal offense.
His main challenge is the lack of funding. Often, he uses personal resources to support the elderly and address community needs—regardless of the hour.
Family Life and Personal Balance
Although his role is demanding, family matters are delegated to a trusted representative. He maintains close involvement when necessary. While culturally permitted to have more wives, he avoids taking actions that could burden others, preferring to focus on the children he already has—many of whom are pursuing higher education.
He occasionally takes short vacations to recharge, leaving the council of chiefs in charge during his absence.
Appeal to Government
Oba Alufah calls for more involvement of traditional rulers in governance. As leaders closest to the people, they should be recognized, consulted, and supported with funding to enhance grassroots development.
