Benin Monarch Urges Indigenes and Non-Indigenes to Join Fasting for Peace and Prosperity
The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has called on the people of Edo State to embark on a two-week fasting and prayer period aimed at warding off evil and seeking peace in the state. This spiritual initiative follows the recent conclusion of the September 21 gubernatorial election, where Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was declared the winner.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Oba Ewuare II urged all indigenes of the Benin Kingdom, as well as non-indigenes residing in Edo State, to participate in the fasting from September 26 to October 9, between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily.
The Oba emphasized that the period of fasting and prayers is crucial to maintaining peace in the state and giving thanks to God for a successful election. He also stressed the importance of seeking divine protection and blessings for a prosperous harvest in accordance with the state’s traditions.
The call for fasting comes at a time of political tension following the governorship election. Okpebholo’s victory over Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, backed by Edo governor Godwin Obaseki, has intensified existing tensions between the Oba and Obaseki. The strained relationship stems from an earlier dispute over the management of Benin artifacts that were returned to the state.
Despite these challenges, the Oba’s call for prayers is meant to foster unity and stability within the state.
The monarch also highlighted the importance of fasting in alignment with the age-old Benin tradition of seeking blessings for the new yam harvest, known as Emorho. He called upon the people to not only pray for a bountiful harvest but also for peace, protection from sudden death, and prosperity in their homes and across the state.
“The Omo N’Oba also enjoins the general public during this two weeks fasting and prayer to appreciate God Almighty for the peaceful conduct of the 2024 Gubernatorial Election and for warding off all forms of evil from our land,” the statement reads.
As the fast begins, both indigenes and non-indigenes of Edo State are encouraged to participate fully in the spiritual exercise, whether at home or in the diaspora, for the well-being of the state and its people.
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