The ancient Ekasa performance in honour of Queen mother, Iyoba Omo N’ikuoyemwen, Iyoba Ewuare II, ending the first part of funeral rites, which lasted for 14 days, begun on Saturday.
Ekasa — spiritually embedded dance procession, is performed during Oba of Benin Coronation ceremonies and funeral rites of Queen mother in Benin Kingdom.
Ekasa performance which was held at the Queen mother’s palace, Uselu, preceded Ikpowia — the last wake keep of the funeral ceremony, while Isuerhanfua — the last ceremony in the funeral programme for Omo N’ikuoyemwen, Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin’s mother, who transited 49 years ago.
Ekasa dancers processed with spiritual renditions across various Queen mothers’ traditional worship sites, including Iyoba Ikuoyemwen’s statue.
Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin, unveiled Ekasa on behalf of the Benin monarch, leaving participants ruminating with anxiety.
Speaking during an interview, Chief Robert Ohuoba, the Oyairioba of Benin said the performance will continue daily and would be rounded off on Thursday March 27, 2025.
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