Benin monarch performs ancient ritual to cleanse the kingdom
The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, led the Ugie Emobo purification rite to ward off evil spirits and bless the land. The ceremony, held on Sunday, is a key part of the ongoing Igue festival in Benin City. The event featured traditional songs, dances, and prayers, drawing large crowds to the palace entrance. The ritual is considered one of the most spiritually important traditions in the Benin Kingdom.
What we know
- Oba Ewuare II performed the Ugie Emobo rite at the Benin Royal Palace entrance on Sunday.
- The ritual re-enacts the historic victory of Prince Osawe (later Oba Esigie) over Prince Idubor, known as Aruan of Udo.
- The ceremony included royal ancestral salutations, traditional dances, and prayers for protection.
- Spectators applauded as the monarch struck royal drums and the ivory gong during the event.
- The Ugie Emobo rite is a major highlight of the annual Igue festival, symbolizing spiritual cleansing for the kingdom.
