Our reporter
The Benin monarch, His Royal Majesty Omo N’ Oba Ewuare II, has honoured his late mother, Queen Mother Iyoba Omo N’ikuoyemwen (Iyoba Ewuare II), with a significant Izakhue rite, marking the continuation of her funeral ceremonies. This solemn tradition, which began on February 15, 2025, pays homage to the revered queen who passed away 49 years ago, in line with the customs and traditions of the Benin Kingdom.
The Izakhue rite is an important ceremonial act that includes both purification and rites of passage for the late queen mother, ensuring her place among the ancestors. The ceremony commenced with a procession from the Palace of Iyoba Omo N’ikuoyemwen at the 5-Junction area of Benin City. Leading the procession were representatives of the Oba, along with palace Chiefs and other dignitaries, who made their way to the statue of Iyoba Ewuare II.
The procession was a spectacle, with the streets filled with onlookers who cheered, danced, and sang to the beat of royal drums. The highlight of the event came when the royal procession reached Eguae Iyoba, where the monarch, in an emotional tribute, visited several pilgrimage sites that held significance to the late Queen Mother. These included the Aruo Iyeweka, Ugiomo N’Iyoba, Ihenya N’Iyoramwen, and Aruo Idia N’Iyesigie, where he paid homage and expressed his gratitude for her life and legacy.
The ceremonial sword, a symbol of the royal authority, was prominently displayed during these acts of tribute. The occasion was marked by vibrant performances and displays of Benin cultural heritage, as local residents joined in the celebrations, adding a touch of joy and reverence to the rites.
The Izakhue rite marks an important chapter in the history of the Benin royal family, as the formal ceremonies had been delayed until the Oba’s ascension to the throne. Now that His Majesty Omo N’ Oba Ewuare II has been crowned, the full rites can be observed, allowing for the proper passage and commemoration of the late queen.
The funeral ceremonies will continue to unfold, with a grand reception held at the royal court for guests, palace Chiefs, dignitaries, and residents of Uselu. These rites are an integral part of the Benin Kingdom’s rich cultural tradition, reinforcing the eternal bond between the monarch, his lineage, and the people of Benin.
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