Okuku, Others: BTC makes clarification

BTC members at the media briefing

From our news desk, Benin

The Benin Traditional Council on the directive of the Benin Monarch HRM Oba Ewuare II has made public, clarification on the use of some traditional paraphernalia; Okuku, Ada, Eben, Ewu Iwu, the Udeguogho and others.

In January, the Palace announced a ban on what it termed: the indiscriminate public abuse of these traditional paraphernalia, as it placed a curse on deviants.

An uproar followed, causing a lot of stir amongst the people of the Kingdom.

Consequently addressing journalists on Thursday, 13 February, 2024 at the Oba's Palace, the BTC said the clarification on the authority of the Monarch was due to appeals from natives of Benin; both home and abroad.

The 'Okuku' the BTC explained; is a "traditional hairdo strictly for the wives of the Oba of Benin hence not permitted to be used by any other woman."

The different aspects (designs) on the Okuku carry both religious and cultural significance, which cannot be explained to the uninitiated, the BTC said.

It added, that they are not for mere decoration even though they have aesthetic value.

However, there are hairdo the ordinary Benin woman can wear for both social and ceremonial events entirely different from the Okuku, it was said.

Just as the Ada, (Sceptre) and Eben (scimitar) are prohibited for public use. Only authorised persons can use them.

The use of these traditional paraphernalia at funerals, marriages, birthday parties and other social events are strongly forbidden, the BTC warned.

But the traditional dress of Ewu Iwu upon which the long bead (Udeguogho) is adorned; is recommended for every Benin male who desires them.

However, it was emphasised, that the bottom wear for this attire referred to as 'Ebuluku' (Skirt); must not be ododo (red colour).

It must not also carry the symbols of the palm tree, star, moon, sun, and the leopard; these connotes very strong religious and cultural significance of the Oba of Benin, the BTC said.

A pictorial display of the traditional paraphernalia

For better understanding of the clarification, a pictorial of the various paraphernalia both banned and permitted were displayed.

Members of the BTC who on behalf of the Oba addressed journalists include; Chief Norense Ozigbo Esere, Osuma of Benin, Chief George Igie Ekhator-Obasogie, Obasogie of Benin, Chief Edionwe Oliha, Oliha of Benin.

Others are Chief Stanley Obamwonyi, Esere of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, Obazelu of Benin, Chief Ada Igbinovia, Eribo of Benin, and Chief Okunnoghae Edomwandagbon, Ine of Benin.

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