The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has directed indigenes and residents of Edo State to observe a two-week fasting and prayer session to seek divine protection and blessings for the land.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Obamedo of Benin, Efosa Igbinomwanhia. According to the monarch, the fasting will run from September 15 to September 28, with participants expected to fast daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Oba Ewuare explained that the exercise aligns with the kingdom’s long-standing tradition of seeking God’s favor and the blessings of royal ancestors before the annual new yam festival. He said the prayers are intended to ensure peace, ward off sudden death, and guarantee a season of abundance.

“All Benin sons and daughters, both at home and abroad, as well as non-indigenes residing in Edo, are urged to take part,” the statement read.

The monarch prayed that the period of fasting would bring peace, joy, and prosperity to individuals, families, the state, and Nigeria at large.