From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has performed the 2023 Ugie Emobo rites and prayed to Almighty God and his ancestors for peace and blessings for Nigeria and Nigerians.
The spiritual rites were performed through prayers, ahead of the new year to ward-off evil spirits that might be hovering around any part of the country.
The spiritual dance was kindled by Oba Ewuare II, who after offering prayers, took his ivory gong which he struck to chase away evil forces, with profusion of soul-stirring songs.
Exchange of communication with ancestral spirits underscores the significance of Ugie Emobo rites that began centuries ago.
Spectators trooped out to partake in the blessings of Ugie Emobo rites that have gained wide scale acceptance.
Designated routes, including Plymouth, Airport roads and the King square, were electrified after Oba Ewuare II, the star icon, beats the royal drum.
Ogbelaka royal drummers, led by Okpamen Eghobamien, Obamwonyi N’ Ogbelaka of Benin, supplied the needed impetus that saw a rare display of Edo cultural heritage.
It was splendid to behold Letema, who was armed with the collective ancestral staff of Benin, sang and danced around the King square in Benin along with Oba Ewuare II.
The oba offered prayers of peace and blessings with a ceremonial sword and the collective ancestral staff of Benin at Edion Edo deity, going down in history.