The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has led a spiritual purification ceremony against evil forces during the Ugie Emobo rite as part of the colourful activities marking the annual Igue festival
This was announced in a statement statement issued on Sunday in Benin by the Chief Press Secretary to the Oba, Osaigbovo Iguobaro.
Ugie Emobo is regarded as one of the most significant traditional rites of the Igue celebration.
According to Iguobaro, the ancient rite symbolises the defeat of the Benin giant, Prince Idubor, popularly known as Aruan.
He said Aruan dwelt in Udo, now in Ovia South West Local Government Area, within the historic Benin Kingdom.
According to him, Aruan was defeated by Prince Osawe, who later ascended the throne as Oba Esigie centuries ago.
“The Oba’s dance steps to soul-stirring songs and the drums of the Ogbelaka group spoke to nature and humanity,” Iguobaro said.
Spectators watched in awe, capturing moments of Benin’s rich cultural heritage with their electronic devices.
The rite, held at the palace entrance, began with a royal procession after ancestral salutations at the Ugha-Ozolua axis.
Oba Ewuare offered prayers to God and royal ancestors, as traditional warriors and Ifiento groups added colour to the ceremony.
The Oba’s striking of the royal drums and ivory gong drew loud praises from the crowd.
The outdoor rite concluded with special prayers to ward off evil spirits, before a dramatic return procession to the palace courtyard.
(NAN)
