Oba of Benin Restores Ancient Tradition
The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, CFR, has announced the return of the Emoro ceremony, also known as the New Yam Festival.
It will hold inside the royal palace in Benin City on Wednesday, October 4, 2023.
The festival was once a regular feature of the Benin royal calendar but has not been observed for years.
By bringing it back, the monarch aims to protect the kingdom’s rich heritage and strengthen unity among the Benin people.
Community Invited to the Historic Feast
In a formal statement from the palace, the Oba invited members of the Benin Royal family and palace chiefs.
The call also went to Edionwere (village elders), Okao, Igiohen (priests and priestesses), Okaighele and market women.
The grand feast will take place on Friday, October 6, 2023, at the Oba’s Palace.
Festivities will begin at exactly 12 noon.
Significance of the Emoro New Yam Festival
The Emoro festival expresses gratitude to God and the ancestors for a successful harvest.
It is also a time of communal feasting that reinforces cultural bonds across the ancient Benin Kingdom.
By reviving the Emoro festival, the Oba of Benin shows commitment to preserving culture while guiding the kingdom into modern times.
Official Memo
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