The revered monarch of the Benin Kingdom, Oba Ewuare II, has officially declared a special period of two weeks of fasting and prayer for all residents and indigenes of Edo State, both at home and abroad. This solemn spiritual exercise, according to the palace, is aimed at warding off evil, restoring peace, and seeking divine blessings for the state and its people.
The directive, which was formally announced on Monday by the Obamedo of Benin, Efosa Igbinomwanhia, emphasized that the fasting and prayer session would take place from September 15 to September 28, 2025. During this period, all Benin sons and daughters, as well as residents of Edo irrespective of their origin, are expected to participate in the daily fasting exercise from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The Oba explained that the fasting is in keeping with an age-old Benin tradition that precedes the annual new yam festival. It is a period where the people collectively humble themselves before God Almighty and the royal ancestors, seeking a bountiful harvest, protection against sudden deaths, and harmony in homes and communities across Edo State.
In his official message, the monarch declared:
“His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin, hereby informs the general public that beginning from 15 September 2025 until 28 September 2025, all sons and daughters of the Benin Kingdom, and by extension indigenes and non-indigenes living in Edo State, are to observe two weeks of fasting and prayer. This is our tradition and an important preparation before the commencement of the annual new yam festival. It is a sacred time to call upon God Almighty and our royal ancestors to grant us abundant harvests, shield us from sudden death, and bless us with peace and tranquillity in our homes, families, state, and Nigeria at large.”
The palace further stressed that this directive applies equally to Benin indigenes in the diaspora, urging them to set aside the same dates for prayer and fasting in unity with their kinsmen at home. The monarch expressed confidence that the spiritual exercise would bring forth renewal, stability, and prosperity for all participants.
“The Omo N’Oba prays that as we embark on this two-week fasting and prayer from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily, God Almighty will answer our prayers, grant us peace, and fill our hearts with joy,” the statement concluded.