Igue Festival: Oba Of Benin Palace Places Ban On Burial Rites
Igue Festival: Oba Of Benin Palace Places Ban On Burial Rites
The palace of the Oba of Benin has issued a directive, banning burial rites in the kingdom during the upcoming annual Igue festival. The festival, marked by various ceremonies, holds cultural and traditional significance in the Benin Kingdom.
Key Festival Dates:
- Ugierhoba Ceremony (Indoors): Begins on Tuesday, December 20, 2023.
- Otue Igue Oba Ceremony: Commences on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at 3 p.m.
- Igue Oba (Indoors) Ceremony: Takes place on Thursday, December 21, 2023.
- Ugie-Emobo Ceremony: Scheduled for Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 3 p.m.
- Igue-Ivbioba: Benin Princes and Princesses mark Igue with their families on Saturday, December 23, 2023.
- Igue Edohia: Edo people perform individual worship in their homes on Monday, December 25, 2023.
- Ugie Ewere (Ceremony of ‘Ewere’ Blessings): Set for Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at 3 p.m.
Burial Rites Prohibition:
- The palace emphasized that celebrations of burial rites are not permitted during the period of the annual Royal festival.
- The directive aims to maintain the sanctity and focus of the festival, discouraging activities that may detract from the cultural significance of the ceremonies.
Special Arrangements and Engagements:
- The statement indicated that seating arrangements would be made for visitors at the Palace during specific ceremonies.
- Engagement events may be scheduled for “free days,” with appropriate announcements to be made.
Closing Appeal: The palace appealed to the public to adhere to the directive and respect the prohibition of burial rites during the festival. Additionally, prayers were offered for the avoidance of death in people’s homes during this period.
Conclusion: The Oba of Benin’s palace directive serves as a reminder of the cultural and traditional protocols observed during the annual Igue festival. This announcement aims to preserve the cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom, encouraging the community to actively participate in and respect the sacredness of the festival.
