By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Oba of Benin Kinhdom, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has declared 14 days fasting and prayer to kick off the commencement of the consumption of the new yam (Emorhϙ).
The declaration was contained in a statement signed by Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin.
It reads: “The Benin Traditional Council wishes to inform the general public that His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin, has directed all sons and daughters of Benin Kingdom and, by extension, indigenes and non-indigenes living in Edo State to embark on two weeks of fasting and prayer, commencing from Monday, 14th September, 2026 to Sunday, 27th September, 2026.
“The two-week fasting period is from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily,
“This is in line with our age-long tradition that before the commencement of the consumption of the new yam (Emorhϙ), we must fast and pray to God Almighty and the Royal Ancestors for peace, tranquility, and to shield our family, state, and country from death and evil occurrences.
“All Benin sons and daughters at home and in the Diaspora are to undergo this fasting and prayer without fail during this period.
“The Omo N’Oba prays to God Almighty and the Royal ancestors to grant us peace and happiness as we all embark on this fasting and prayer.”
