As the October 20th date draws near for the coronation of a new Oba of Benin, two prominent groups in Benin Kingdom, the Ogbelaka and Eguadase has commenced a spiritual dance called Ekassa.

The Ekassa dance which will be held daily until after the coronation is part of activities to herald Crown prince Ehenden Erediauwa, to the throne of the Oba.

Ekassa is performed by only males dressed in white robes after undergoing spiritual cleansing.

Certain families in the kingdom are part of the Ekassa group.

The dance moved through streets in Benin City to Uzama Palace where the Crown Prince is carrying out coronation rites and rituals for seven days.

Chief Obawonyi of Ogbelaka and Chief Robert Uhuoba who spoke about the significance of the dance said it was imperative that the dance is carried out after the death of an Oba and when a new one is about to ascend the throne.

Uhuoba noted that partaking in the dance that comes in a life time was a privilege.