The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has performed a spiritual purification ceremony to ward off evil forces during the Ugie Emobo rite, one of the most revered traditions of the annual Igue Festival.
According to a statement issued on Sunday in Benin by the Chief Press Secretary to the Oba, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, the Ugie Emobo rite is a symbolic ceremony deeply rooted in Benin history and culture.
The rite commemorates the legendary defeat of Prince Idubor (Aruan) of Udo, a formidable figure in Benin history, by Prince Osawe, who later ascended the throne as Oba Esigie centuries ago. This victory is celebrated as a triumph of good over evil and remains a cornerstone of Benin’s cultural heritage.
The ceremony began with a royal procession following ancestral salutations at the Ugha-Ozolua axis. Oba Ewuare II offered prayers to God and royal ancestors, invoking blessings for peace and protection.
Traditional warriors, the Ifiento groups, and the Ogbelaka drummers added colour and rhythm to the event. The Oba’s dance steps, accompanied by soul-stirring songs and the beating of royal drums and ivory gong, captivated spectators who recorded the historic moments on their devices.
The outdoor rite concluded with special prayers to cleanse the land of evil spirits, reinforcing the spiritual essence of the Igue Festival. The ceremony ended with a dramatic return procession to the palace courtyard, symbolising renewal and divine protection for the Benin Kingdom.
Spectators described the event as a profound display of Benin’s rich cultural heritage, blending spirituality, history, and tradition in a way that continues to inspire reverence across generations.
