The Benin Traditional Council (BTC) in Edo State, on Thursday, insisted that the ban of Okuku traditional hairdo remained in force in Benin Kingdom of Edo State.
It reinterated that the Okuku was not for decorations, but strictly for Oba of Benin’s wives (Queens), noting, “it is not allowed to be used by any other woman.”
The Osuma of Benin, Chief Norense Ozigbo-Esere, made the clarification during a press briefing at the Oba’s palace in Benin City, the State capital.
Chief Norense said the Oba of Benin, HRM Ewuare II, directed that the general public should be enlightened on the Okuku hairstyle ban following appeals from the Benin Kingdom’s sons and daughters in diaspora who sought for clarification.
While displaying photographs of Okuku hairstyles, he said: “the different aspects you see of Okuku is of religious and cultural significance which cannot be explained to the uninitiated.”
Continuing, Chief Norense said the ban against public use of Ada (sceptre) and Eben (Scimitar) during social events also remained in force, declaring that “only authorised persons are permitted to use sceptre and scimitar.”
He added that Ewu Iwu dress with long bead is recommended for every Benin male who wishes to adorn Benin traditional outfit.
The Chief, however, pointed out that, “the bottom part of Ewu Iwu should not be Ododo form and should not be adorn with symbols of palm trees star, moon, sun, leopard, as these are of religious and cultural significance to the Oba of Benin.”
