The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, recently held the Ekasa dance in memory of his late mother, Iyoba Omo N’ikuoyemwen, on the 49th anniversary of her passing. This spiritually significant dance celebrates the conclusion of the first part of her funeral rites. The performances will continue daily until March 27 at various traditional sites.
On Saturday, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, hosted the ancient Ekasa dance to commemorate his late mother, Iyoba Omo N’ikuoyemwen, who passed away 49 years ago. The Ekasa dance, rich in spiritual significance, marks the conclusion of the initial phase of her funeral rites and is traditionally performed during the Oba’s coronation events.
A procession of Ekasa dancers traversed various traditional worship sites associated with the Queen Mothers, stopping at the statue of Iyoba Ikuoyemwen located at the Five Junctions in Benin. Chief Robert Ohuoba, the Oyairioba of Benin, indicated that these performances would occur daily, concluding on Thursday, March 27.
Chief Ohuoba informed that the Ekasa performances typically take place at the Queen Mother’s palace in Uselu, preceded by Ikpowia, which serves as the final wake-keep in the funeral ceremonies. He noted that Isuerhanfua represents the last official observance in the funeral schedule for the Oba’s mother.
The Oba of Benin’s conduction of the Ekasa dance serves as a poignant tribute to his late mother, integrating historical traditions and spiritual significance. This ceremonial mourning not only reinforces the cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom but also highlights the continuous respect and remembrance afforded to the Oba’s lineage. Chief Ohuoba’s insights further illuminate the ceremonial practices surrounding the funeral rites, emphasizing the importance of these traditions in the community.
Original Source: www.nationalaccordnewspaper.com
