- The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, disassociated from a planned Igue Festival dramatization, stating it misrepresents sacred traditions without his consent
- The Benin Traditional Council has taken legal action against the event organizers, emphasizing the importance of preserving the Igue Festival’s authenticity
The Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has disassociated himself from a planned dramatization of the Igue Festival by the Association for Cultural and Economic Renaissance of Edo (ACERE) in Lagos.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Benin City, the monarch’s Chief Press Secretary, Osaigbovo Iguobaro, emphasized that the Igue Festival is a sacred tradition exclusive to the Oba and the Benin Kingdom.
He clarified that the event, scheduled for Sunday at the Muson Centre in Lagos, was arranged without the monarch’s consent or input.
“The Palace has expressed deep concerns over this proposed event,” the statement read. “It is a misrepresentation of our age-old customs and the sacred traditional performance of the Igue Festival.”
Iguobaro revealed that the Benin Traditional Council has taken legal action against ACERE. A court order, granted on Friday, now restrains the association from using the Oba’s image or proceeding with the event without approval from the Palace.
The Palace urged the public to disregard any group claiming to promote Benin culture without proper authorization. “Such acts not only mislead the public but also undermine the sanctity of our cultural heritage,” the statement added.
The Igue Festival is a revered celebration in the Benin Kingdom. It marks the end of the year and the renewal of spiritual strength for the monarch and his people. According to the Palace, its authenticity must be preserved.
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