In response to a divine call to duty, Omo N’Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin on Saturday night released spiritual power against evil forces, while performing ‘Ugie Emobo’ ― seen as one of the most significant traditional rites that hold incredible spiritual connection during Igue festival celebration.
The ancient rite, marks the defeat of Benin giant Prince Idubor popularly known as Aruan, who dwelled at ‘Udo’ in the modern day Ovia South West Local Government Area, which is part of Benin Kingdom.
Aruan’s defeat followed the contest between him and Prince Osawe who later became Oba Esigie that reigned in Benin Kingdom Centuries ago, according to Literatures on Benin Anthropology.
The majestic dance steps of the Oba to soul-stirring traditional songs and drum beats of ‘Ogbelaka group, speaks to heart of nature and humanity at the annual event that amused spectators, who scramble to catch a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of Benin people and capture highlights of the moment with their electronic devices.
The traditional rite, observed in front of Oba’s Palace entrance gate, began with a royal procession led by the courtyard by Oba Ewuare, after the salutation to his ancestors at ‘Ugha-Ozolua’ axis in his palace in Benin City.
Oba Ewuare offered prayers of Thanksgiving to almighty God and his Royal ancestors for the glorious year, while select Palace functionaries, including archer-bound — ‘Isienmwenro’ known as ‘traditional warriors’ and ‘Ifiento’ groups, added glamour to the event.
Moment the Oba rose and had his hands on the royal drums, brought a pleasant energy to the drummers, while spectators responded with a warm expression of effusion of praises and loud thoughtful compliments as he strikes his ivory gong.
The outdoor rite by the Oba, snowballed through ritual solemnity of special prayer that ward-off evil spirits that may be hovering around any part of Nigeria with the collective ancestral staff of the Benin people at Arue’dion Edohia, shortly before momentum shifted to returned procession of the Oba towards the courtyard, amid dramatic twists and torns that captivated the audience during the spiritual exercise.
Why do Benin people serve this man as their God yet the sate is one of the most less developed in that region regardless of the oil presence in the Land?.