In February 2025, the Benin Kingdom observed the royal funeral rites for Iyoba Omo N’Ikuoyemwen, the beloved mother of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin. This long-awaited ceremony followed the Benin customs and traditions, which dictate that the funeral rites of a Queen Mother (Iyoba) can only be performed after her son, the Edaiken (Crown Prince), ascends the throne and formally confers the title of Iyoba upon her.


Oba Ewuare II fulfilled this tradition by posthumously bestowing the Iyoba title on his late mother on November 21, 2021. The funeral rites officially began on February 15, 2025, marking the start of a grand, weeks-long ceremony that has drawn dignitaries, traditional chiefs, and thousands of Benin indigenes to the ancient kingdom.

A major highlight of the ceremony is the Ekasa performance, a sacred royal dance traditionally performed to honor a deceased Iyoba. The Ekasa rites commenced on March 1, 2025, and will continue until March 27, 2025, culminating at the Oba’s Palace. This elaborate cultural display is an essential part of Benin’s heritage, symbolizing deep respect and a befitting farewell to the late Queen Mother.

During the mourning period, the use of traditional coral beads has been temporarily suspended throughout the Benin Kingdom, reflecting the solemnity of the occasion and the high regard in which the late Iyoba was held.

Notably, the customized Ankara fabrics worn during both the 2021 conferment and the 2025 funeral ceremonies were produced by Ola Daviva International. These fabrics, originally designed in 2021, have become a significant part of the commemoration, blending traditional elegance with modern craftsmanship, making the ceremonies even more memorable.