Oba of Benin fasting and prayer declared for September 15–28, urging Edo indigenes, residents, and diaspora to seek peace, unity, and blessings

Oba of Benin fasting and prayer has been declared for a two-week period from September 15 to 28, 2025, according to a statement from the palace of His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, CFR.

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The spiritual exercise, rooted in Benin tradition, is held ahead of the annual new yam festival and is intended to seek divine favour, protection, and prosperity for the kingdom and its people.

Participants are expected to fast daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The monarch said the collective prayers will focus on peace, protection from sudden death, a fruitful harvest, and lasting unity across families, communities, and the nation.

The Oba of Benin called on all sons and daughters of the kingdom — including those in the diaspora — as well as non-indigenes residing in Edo State, to take part in the exercise.

“The Omo N’Oba prays to God Almighty to grant us peace and happiness as we embark on this fasting and prayer,” the statement read.

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The directive underscores the monarch’s dual role as cultural custodian and moral guide, with the new yam period symbolising the community’s reliance on divine providence for sustenance, harmony, and renewal.