The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has led a spiritual purification ceremony against evil forces during the Ugie Emobo rite.

The ceremony formed part of activities marking the annual Igue festival, according to a statement on Sunday.

Ugie Emobo is regarded as one of the most significant traditional rites of the Igue celebration. The ancient rite symbolises the defeat of the Benin giant, Prince Idubor, popularly known as Aruan.

Aruan dwelt in Udo, now in Ovia South West LGA, within the historic Benin Kingdom. Aruan was defeated by Prince Osawe, who later ascended the throne as Oba Esigie centuries ago.

“The oba’s dance steps to soul-stirring songs and the drums of the Ogbelaka group spoke to nature and humanity,” said the statement.

The rite, held at the palace entrance, began with a royal procession after ancestral salutations at the Ugha-Ozolua axis.

The Benin monarch offered prayers to God and royal ancestors, as traditional warriors and Ifiento groups added colour to the ceremony.

The king’s striking of the royal drums and ivory gong drew loud praises from the crowd.

The outdoor rite concluded with special prayers to ward off evil spirits, before a dramatic return procession to the palace courtyard.

(NAN)