The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba Ewuare Ogidigan (II), has sacked the presiding priest of Holy Aruosa Cathedral, Ohen-Osa Harrison Okao.
Naija News understands that Harrison Okao was sacked for alleged non-compliance with the ancient long tradition of the land
A statement by Benin Traditional Council (BTC) Secretary, Frank Irabor, disclosed that the decision was jointly taken by the traditional head of the church, HRM Oba Ewuare the second, joint elders committee and top palace chiefs after Okao was found guilty of violating the long-standing rules of the church.
Irabor said the removal of the former top priest of the church would restore sanity and lasting peace to the foremost Benin national church.
Oba Ewuare ordered the former priest to handover the church property in his possession as the Ohenosa to the head Iweguae Chief Esere.
He was also warned to stop any financial transaction within the cathedral.
This online newspaper reports that the Holy Aruosa is a combination of English and Bini words. Holy as it implies means to be pure while Aruosa is a place or site of worshipping God.
The Holy Aruosa Church was reportedly founded in 1506 during the reign of Oba Esigie.
The Church, said to be the oldest church in Africa, was established by the Portuguese before they started the Roman Catholic and other churches. Today, it is common to see tourists from America and Europe visiting the church.