BENIN CITY – Edo State Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Egberanmwan Odubu has described culture as true identity of the people.
He made the remark yesterday during the celebration of Igue festival at his residence in Benin City.
Igue Festival is a festival of peace which ushers in God’s blessings and is celebrated by the people of Benin Kingdom annually.
During yesterday’s celebration, the residence of the deputy governor came alive with visits by various dance groups and cultural guilds in line with Benin custom and tradition during the festival.
Armed with “Ewere” leaves which symbolize peace and well-being in Benin Kingdom, the groups presented the symbol of peace to the deputy governor and others who were in attendance.
In his remarks, Dr. Pius Odubu said culture is crucial in the life of Edo people and stressed that he would continue to promote Benin Culture.
The deputy governor emphasized that the acceptance of western culture should not be at the detriment of indigenous ways of life.
The member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode constituency at the House of Representatives and APC senatorial candidate for Edo South, Hon. Samson Osagie and the former Vice Chairman, Oredo Local Government Council, Mrs. Joyce Osagie said Igue and Ugie-Ewere are age long practices by Benin people.
They said the festival offers opportunity for the people to thank God for the out-going year and to usher in the new year.
No fewer than 48 cultural groups and guilds visited the deputy governor’s residence during the Ugie Ewere celebration.