The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, held the Ekasa dance on Saturday to honor his mother, who died 49 years ago. This spiritual dance marks the end of her funeral rites and is significant in coronation ceremonies. The performance involves rituals at Queen mothers’ worship sites, concluding on March 27, led by Chief Robert Ohuoba.
On Saturday, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, commemorated his late mother, Iyoba Omo N’ikuoyemwen, who passed away 49 years ago, with the traditional Ekasa dance. This dance, steeped in spiritual significance, marks a key phase in the funeral rites. It is notable for its role in both funeral ceremonies and coronation events of the Oba.
The Ekasa dance involves a procession where dancers perform rituals at traditional worship sites for Queen mothers, notably at the statue of Iyoba Ikuoyemwen located at five junctions in Benin city. Chief Robert Ohuoba, the Oyairioba of Benin, indicated that this performance would span several days, concluding on Thursday, March 27.
Typically, the Ekasa dance takes place at the Queen mother’s palace in Uselu, following the Ikpowia wake-keeping ceremony, which serves as the final vigil in the funeral proceedings. The Isuerhanfua ceremony signifies the completion of the funeral events for the Oba’s mother, underscoring the cultural importance of these rituals in honoring deceased royalty.
The Oba of Benin’s Ekasa dance in memory of his late mother represents a significant cultural tradition. This annual ceremony not only celebrates her legacy but also serves to reinforce the community’s ties to their royal heritage. The continuation of such traditions signals the importance of honoring ancestors within the Benin culture.
Original Source: www.nationalaccordnewspaper.com
