Oba of Benin declares fasting, prayers for peace, protection in Edo

Benin, Edo – The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has called on all indigenes and residents of Edo State to participate in a two-week fasting and prayer session from September 15 to September 28, 2025, to seek divine intervention for peace, protection, and prosperity in the state.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Monday, September 8, 2025, by the Obamedo of Benin, Efosa Igbinomwanhia.

The spiritual exercise, rooted in the age-long Benin tradition, is intended to ward off evil, shield the land from sudden death, and promote unity and tranquility across individual homes, families, Edo State, and Nigeria at large.

The fasting period, scheduled daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., aligns with the customary practice of seeking divine favor and protection ahead of the annual new yam festival, a significant cultural event in the Benin Kingdom.

In his statement, the Oba urged all sons and daughters of the Benin Kingdom, both at home and in the diaspora, as well as non-indigenes residing in Edo State, to join in the collective prayers.

“This is in line with our age-long tradition that before the commencement of the yearly new yam, it is important that we fast and pray to God Almighty and the royal ancestors for a bountiful harvest and to shield us away from sudden death and for peace and tranquillity,” the statement read.

The monarch emphasized that the exercise is open to people of all faiths, encouraging Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers to participate in this unifying spiritual endeavor.

The Oba’s call comes at a time when Edo State is preparing for significant cultural and communal activities, with the fasting and prayer aimed at fostering spiritual renewal, strengthening cultural values, and ensuring a bountiful harvest.

The monarch expressed his prayers for peace and happiness for all participants, underscoring his role as a cultural custodian and moral compass for the Benin Kingdom.

Residents of Edo State have welcomed the directive, with many expressing their commitment to join in the spiritual exercise.

The Oba’s announcement has also sparked discussions on social media platforms, with posts reflecting sentiments of unity and the importance of collective prayer for the state’s well-being, though no specific posts directly referenced the fasting announcement.

The Oba of Benin’s declaration underscores the enduring influence of traditional leadership in promoting harmony and spiritual resilience in Edo State.

As the two-week period approaches, residents are preparing to come together in faith, seeking divine protection and blessings for their communities and beyond.