BENIN CITY- As a follow up to Friday April 29, 2016 announcement that the Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediauwa has joined his ancestors, the Benin Traditional Council has released guidelines ahead of the Emwinekhua” to be announced later.
A statement by BTC indicated that from the date of the announcement of “Emwinehua” to the end of the ceremonies, all burial rites are prohibited.
The statement signed by Secretary of BTC, Frank Irabor indicated that all male indigenes of Benin Kingdom, as a rule are expected to clean shave the hair on their head with effect from April 29, 2016 in line with Benin Tradition.
All Chiefs, Enigie Priests and Palace functionaries who are entitled to wear beads as part of their normal wear, will henceforth seize to wear beads from the date of the announcement and in the alternative, wear ‘Omonorhue’ or white thread (Ikhian) until further notice.
The statement noted that all markets in Benin Kingdom are to remain closed for three days after the announcement, expressing assurance that as at the time of issuing the statement, they were opened and busy with activities.
According to the statement, “All our friends and well wishers, including all those who live with us and work for their livelihood within our kingdom may wish to join us in this action,” while appreciating the media for the full coverage of the announcement of the Oba joining his ancestors.
