The Benin Traditional Council has clarified that Okuku hairstyles is exclusively reserved for Oba of Benin wives, warning behind misuse of Benin traditional attires against bringing damnation on themselves and their own generations.
The revelation reaffirmed the earlier ban placed on Okuku by the Benin Palace, arising from indiscriminate use of Benin Royal insignia, effigy and other accoutrements by unauthorized persons.
BTC at a Media briefing in Oba Palace in Benin City, where different types of pictorial Okuku were displayed for public enlightenment, following appeals by sons and daughters at home and diaspora, requesting for clarification on the decision by the Palace.
Chief Norense Ozigbo-Esere, the Osuma of Benin who spoke on behalf of the Chiefs, explained that Okuku — is neither a cultural and religious significance, nor a mere decoration that can be explained to the uninitiated, remains ban for other women.
Prominent Benin Chiefs also who endorsed the statement are, Edionwe Oliha, the Oliha of Benin, Chief Stanley Osamwonyi, the Esere of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, the Obazelu of Benin, Chief Stanley Osamwonyi, the Esere of Benin amongst others.
Using pictorial illustrations on different kinds of Okuku and other Royal symbols, were displayed, ‘ Chief Ozigbo-Esere and Frank Irabor, Secretary, Benin Traditional Council, also gave insight
Ada (scepter) and Eben (scimitar) which are prohibited for public use and are to be used only by authorized person(s).
“They are not to be used at funerals, marriages, birthday parties and other social events.
“The public should note that the bottom part of the Ewu Iwu (referred to as Ebuluku) should not be Ododo form and should not be adorn with symbols of the palm trees, star, moon, sun, leopard, as these are of religious and cultural significance to the Oba of Benin.
“The general public is advised to take note, please”, according to the Benin Traditional Council, which emphasize that Adam (scepter) and Eben (Scimitar) are prohibited for public use.
Leave a Reply