In a historic moment steeped in tradition and reverence, the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, has unveiled the long-awaited funeral rites for his beloved mother, Iyoba Omo N’ Ikuoyemwen, Iyoba Ewuare II, nearly half a century after her transition.
The monarch, in a statement released in Benin City, explained that the delay was in strict adherence to the customs of the Benin Kingdom, which forbids the Edaiken (Crown Prince) from performing funeral rites until he has ascended the throne as Oba.
This tradition, deeply rooted in the kingdom’s heritage, meant that only after his coronation could he honor his mother’s passage with the dignity it deserved.
Signed by Frank Irabor, Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC), the statement recalled that on the 21st of November, 2021, Oba Ewuare II had conferred the prestigious title of Iyoba posthumously upon his mother, thereby setting the stage for this long-overdue royal farewell.
The rites, scheduled to commence on the 15th of February 2025, will extend through the 27th of March, 2025, beginning with a solemn fourteen-day ceremony at Eguae Iyoba N’Uselu by 5 Junction, Benin City. This will mark the official mourning period, after which the Ekasa ceremony—the second phase of the rites will take place.
A remarkable aspect of the Ekasa observance is the temporary suspension of traditional coral beads within the Palace and across the Kingdom as a mark of deep respect.
From the 15th of February, 2025, until the conclusion of the Ekasa on the 27th of March, 2025, the kingdom will officially be in mourning.
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Reflecting on the significance of this moment, the statement reiterated:
“For clarification purposes, in accordance with Benin customs and tradition, the royal funeral rites could not be performed until the Edaiken ascends the throne. Thus, the Oba had to first posthumously confer the title of Iyoba on his mother before proceeding with the funeral rites, hence the reason why it is taking place now.”
The Ekasa group will begin their ceremonial performances on the 1st of March, 2025, culminating in a grand closing event on the 27th of March, 2025, at the Oba’s Palace.
It is during this period that the entire Kingdom will immerse itself in profound reflection, honoring the legacy of the late Iyoba.
This royal farewell, long awaited yet profoundly significant, is set to be one of the most historic ceremonies in the Benin Kingdom an enduring tribute to a mother whose memory has stood the test of time, now to be honored with the full weight of royal tradition.