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OBA/IGUE FESTIVAL
The Benin monarch His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku-akpolokpolo Oba Ewaure the second has kick-started this year Igue festival with the performance of Otue – Ugierhoba rite
Otue – Ugierhoba ceremony is used by the monarch to formally notify the ancestors and guardian spirits of the commencement of Igue festival and as well solicit for abundant blessings, good health, and general well-being of the kingdom during and after the festival
The rites which serve as a gateway to a series of activities in accordance with Benin custom and traditions offer top palace chiefs opportunities to pay homages to the Oba
Omo N’Oba, on his way to Ugha-Eroba (ancestral hall), where the sacred ceremony is performed, stops briefly at Aruo – Ozolua ( Ozolua shrine) to pay passionate homage to ancestors for protection throughout the outgoing year, just as ISIKUAN group (royal praise singers) supplied ancient rendition in line with the tradition of the land.
Accomplished by top palace chiefs, Enigie, priest, and priestesses of different deities, palace functionaries, including family members, Oba Ewaure proceeded to Ugha-Eroba (ancestral hall) where the ceremony was performed
Chief Letema presided over the traditional rites on behalf of chief Ihama N’Ihogbe , the head of Ihogbe group, which affords Oba Ewaure the rite of Igue festival that all d various palace grouse including EMEHEL, ISIKUAN, IKPEZEKEN, and others were alive.