Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has attended a Crossover night church service into year 2024, at the Holy Aruosa Cathedral, with Prince Isah Ado-Bayero, son of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado-Bayero.
The presence of the Muslim, that observes the annual hijrah Calendar, amazed worshippers in Holy Aruosa church, also known as the Edo National Church.
The Oba attended the service with his queens and quadruplets he had with Oloi Aisosa Ewuare II.
It is the first time in history, that Oba of Benin has joined the church Crossover service, which is a Christian derivative since Benin monarchy began Centuries ago.
The service, which was conducted in Edo Language, has been instituted by Oba Ewuare II who may now be observing the tradition at the end of annual Igue festival, according to the Benin Calendar.
The presiding Priest of Holy Aruosa Cathedral, Ohen-Osa Igbinoghodua Edebiri, led the marathon prayer session that ushered worshippers into the new year.
This was after Ohen-Osa Edibiri delivered a homily that dwelt on Godliness during the service, which afforded worshippers the opportunity to present their requests to God in prayers, with great expectations.
Sonorous voices of Holy Aruosa Cathedral choir set worshippers into the mood of worship, while groups and individuals took turn to pay respect to the Benin throne.
The Crossover service was also attended by former deputy governor of Edo State, Mr Lucky Imasuen, Gen. Charles Airhiavbere (retd) and members of the Royal family, Chiefs and palace functionaries.
Earlier, the Oba attended the Crossover night service at the Holy Aruosa Cathedral in Benin City, where he celebrated the traditional Igue festival Thanksgiving Service on Sunday December 31, 2023.