Oba Of Benin Conducts Spiritual Rites, Prays For Nigeria During Igue Festival

Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, the Oba of Benin, recently performed the 2023 Ugie Emobo rites, offering prayers to the Almighty God and ancestors on behalf of Nigeria.

The spiritual rites, conducted to dispel evil spirits that may linger anywhere in the country, involved fervent prayers ahead of the approaching new year.

The ceremony, led by Oba Ewuare II, included supplications to God and the ancestors, followed by the striking of an ivory gong to dispel malevolent forces amidst soul-stirring songs.

The tradition of communicating with ancestral spirits during the Ugie Emobo rites dates back centuries, signifying its profound importance.

Numerous spectators gathered to partake in the blessings of the Ugie Emobo rites, showcasing widespread acceptance of the event.

The procession, led by Oba Ewuare II, transformed designated routes such as Plymouth, airport roads, surrounding areas, and the King square, creating an electrifying atmosphere as the revered king played the royal drum.

The Ogbelaka Royal drummers, under the guidance of Chief Okpamen Eghobamien, the Obamwonyi N’ Ogbelaka of Benin, contributed significantly to the display of Edo Cultural heritage.

Accompanied by Letema, who held the collective ancestral staff of Benin, Oba Ewuare II sang and danced around the King square in Benin City.

The Oba concluded the ceremony by offering prayers for peace and blessings, wielding ceremonial swords and the collective ancestral staff of Benin at the Edion Edo deity, creating an indelible mark in history.