TVC E. Prince Eheneden Erediauwa was on Thursday crowned the 39th Oba of Benin Kingdom at a colourful ceremony, but his new name is still kept secret. Prince Erediauwa was crowned at about 2 am by the Usama N’ Ihiron also known as the Edion led by Chief Oliha. Other members of the Edion are Edohen, Ezomo, Ero, Eholo N’ Ire, Oloton and Edaiken. The crowning was done at a private ceremony inside the Usama Palace, a temporary building erected for the coronation ceremony.
The ceremony was attended by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and man state governors. The traditional chiefs present are Chief Omohor of Benin Kingdom, bearer of the ancient sword carried by the Oba; the Ikpakohen group ( royal drummers) from Ikpema responsible for beating the royal drum; and Ekassa dance group, Isienmwenro guild amongst others.
The new name of the Oba will be unveiled to the public at Urhokpota hall. Security has been beefed up as activities heightened for the coronation of the new Oba of Benin.
The Edo state government declared Thursday as public holiday for the coronation. Markets and shop have been closed today as directed by the government to mark the grand finale of coronation rituals. The ancient Kingdom, which used to be called Igodomigodo, will have a new King after the death of Oba Erediauwa, the 38th King, in April.
The centre and major streets in ancient Benin are wearing a new look. The new palace, built by Prince Erediauwa, is an architectural masterpiece. All the major roads to the city centre had been condoned off since Wednesday.
The Oba Ovoranmwen Square was closed to traffic and commercial activities around the Square have been prohibited while posters and banners of Prince Erediauwa adorned the streets.
