The rites for the ascension of the new Oba of Benin, Ehenende Erediauwa, began yesterday, after he left Eguae Edaiken (Uselu) for Oredo. The 70th ruler of Benin Kingdom from Ogiso and the 30th Oba of Benin in the second millennium stopped at Sacred Palm Tree (Udin), from where he proceeded to Iya-Akpan where Uselu chiefs took leave of him and Oredo chiefs took over. He will remain in Eko-Ohae until Monday.

The rites continue tomorrow according to the programme:

Monday, October 10:

•Hrh Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa acknowledging cheers from the crowd

*Edaiken leaves Eko-Ohae for Usama Palace

*Coronation rituals continue

Tuesday, October 18:

The Edaiken goes to Use village for the major Ceremony of choosing a Name.

*Edaiken returns to Usama

Wednesday, October 19: Rest day

Thursday, October 20:

*Edaiken leaves Usama for Benin

*Goes through Isekherhe to Urho-Okpota

*Coronation Ceremony at Urho-Okpota

Sunday, October 23:

*Omo N’Oba’s Thanksgiving Worship at Holly Aruosa

Cross section of chiefs.

Cultural display during the coronation