Oba Of Benin Unveils Activities For Mother’s Funeral 49 Years After Passing

The Oba of Benin Ewuare II, on Sunday, released a programme of activities for the funeral of his mother, Iyoba Omo N’Ikuoyemwen, who died 49 years ago.

The activities were unveiled through a public announcement made by the Secretary to the Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Frank Irabor.

Irabor noted that Ikuoyemwen transited to eternal glory 49 years ago, but her funeral rites could not hold at the time due to Benin customs.

According to him, the funeral rites have to wait until the Edaiken, the Crown Prince, is thereafter crowned the Oba of Benin in line with Benin customs and tradition.

The BTC secretary recalled that Oba Ewuare II had posthumously conferred the title of Iyoba on his mother on November 21, 2021, to commemorate her legacy.

Irabor, meanwhile, announced a suspension of the use of traditional coral beads in Benin Kingdom during the private royal family ceremonies, scheduled to begin on February 15.

He said the Isorhanfua and Ekasa traditional rites would hold in March.

He said the first phase of the funeral activities would hold between February 15 and 28, at Eguae Iyoba N’ Uselu, by five-junction within the Benin City metropolis.

“It will be followed by Ekasa traditional rites between March 1 and March 26 at the same venue, while the climax slated for March 27 will hold at the Oba Palace, Benin City,” he added.