The Benin monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II has begun the public performance of Ugie-Odudua in remembrance of the return of Oranmiyan, son of Odudua, to his ancestral land of Benin kingdom.
The 14-day programme of activities for the spiritual rites, which started during the reign of Oba Esigie about 1504 AD, is meant to ward-off evil, untimely deaths, usher in peace, progress and development in Edo State.
On Wednesday, drummers were rhythmical at the sacred Ugha-Ehengbuda palace ground at the palace in Benin City, as adherents and other guests watched the traditional and cultural displays with pomp and ceremony.
According to a report by Newspad, Ugie-Oduduwa rite, which is synonymous with Ovia deity, featured ritual dance by seven sacred masquerades led by Chief Osa and Osuan, as Ogbelaka Royal drummers supplied the needed spiritual rendition.
Addressing newsmen on the essence of the festival, the Osa and Osuan of Benin kingdom, Chief John Usen and Chief Ambrose Osuan respectively, who were present at the ceremony, explained that the rite would be further used to cleanse the land and fortify the kingdom against any invasion. (Newspad)
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