The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, on Saturday led the ancient Ekasa dance in honor of his late mother, Iyoba Omo N’ikuoyemwen, who passed away 49 years ago.
The Ekasa dance, a sacred procession with deep spiritual significance, marks the completion of the first phase of her funeral rites. Traditionally, it is also performed during the coronation of a new Oba.
As part of the rites, Ekasa dancers will visit various Queen Mothers’ traditional worship sites, including the statue of Iyoba Ikuoyemwen at Five Junction in Benin City.
Chief Robert Ohuoba, the Oyairioba of Benin, stated that the performances would continue daily until Thursday, March 27. He explained that the Ekasa dance is usually held at the Queen Mother’s palace in Uselu.
“The ceremony follows Ikpowia, the final wake-keep of the funeral rites, while Isuerhanfua marks the conclusion of the entire funeral program for the Oba’s mother,” Ohuoba said.
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