The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, performed the sacred Ugie Emobo rite as part of the annual Igue festival, releasing spiritual power against evil forces. The ancient ceremony commemorates the historic defeat of Prince Idubor, known as Aruan, a Benin giant from Udo who was conquered by Prince Osawe, later Oba Esigie, centuries ago. The rite holds deep spiritual and political significance in Benin Kingdom history.
The ceremony at the palace entrance featured Oba Ewuare II dancing to traditional songs and drumbeats by the Ogbelaka group, captivating spectators. Following homage to royal ancestors at Ugha-Ozolua, the monarch offered thanksgiving prayers for a successful year. Palace functionaries, including traditional warriors with bows and arrows and the Ifiento groups, enhanced the occasion’s grandeur.
A highlight occurred when the Oba touched the royal drums and struck his ivory gong, electrifying the crowd. The outdoor rite concluded with a solemn ritual prayer at Arue’dion Edohia to ward off evil forces believed to hover over Nigeria, performed with the collective ancestral staff. The monarch then returned to the palace courtyard in a dramatic procession, ending the spiritually charged ceremony.