The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, held the traditional Ekasa dance on Saturday to honor his late mother, Iyoba Omo N’ikuoyemwen, on the 49th anniversary of her passing. The dance marks the conclusion of part of her funeral rites and will take place across several sites, culminating on March 27.
On Saturday, Oba Ewuare II of Benin commemorated his late mother, Iyoba Omo N’ikuoyemwen, who passed away 49 years ago, by conducting the traditional Ekasa dance. This dance, rich in spiritual significance, marks the conclusion of the initial phase of her funeral rites and is also a prominent feature during the coronation ceremonies of the Oba.
The Ekasa dancers are expected to perform at various traditional worship sites dedicated to Queen mothers, including a significant location—the statue of Iyoba Ikuoyemwen at five junctions in Benin. Chief Robert Ohuoba, the Oyairioba of Benin, indicated that this dance performance will occur daily, culminating on Thursday, March 27.
The performance traditionally takes place at the Queen mother’s palace in Uselu. Chief Ohuoba explained that the Ekasa dance is preceded by Ikpowia, the final wake-keep during the funeral ceremonies, while Isuerhanfua signifies the last ceremony dedicated to the Oba’s mother in the funeral agenda.
In summary, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has organized the Ekasa dance to honor his mother’s memory, highlighting its cultural importance in both funeral rites and royal ceremonies. The performance will occur daily across significant sites in Benin, concluding on March 27, underlining the enduring traditions associated with the monarchy.
Original Source: punchng.com
