Oba of Benin halts all funeral rites during Igue festivals

The Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II

In line with the ancient tradition, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin has directed that all funeral events/burial rites would not be permitted during the 2025 Igue festival otherwise called ‘Ugie’, which begins on December 14th with Ugierhoba rite (indoor).

According to notification contained in the programme of event endorsed by Secretary, Benin Traditional Council, Frank Irabor, Oba Ewuare II prayed God and his ancestors to grant Nigerians good health to participate in the annual festival and keep death from people’s homes.

Otue Igue Oba ceremony is slated for December 16th beginning, while December 20, 2025, is billed for Ugie-Emobo traditional rite will begin at 3p.m, according to the Benin palace.

Also, Igue Edohia (a day set aside for all Edo people to perform their individual worship in their homes) at their own time will hold on December 22nd, while Ugie Ewere (ceremony of bringing ‘Ewere’ blessings to all homes’ will hold the next day, December 23rd 2025.

Accordingly, there will be sitting arrangement during Ewere day event for visitors in the palace.

The festival will climax with a worship by the Oba of Benin at the Holy Aruosa Cathedral along Akpakpava in Benin City on Sunday, December 28th 2025, beginning at 10a.m, according to the programme, which also said “engagements may be fixed for any free day, which will be announced as appropriate.”

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