Caption: Photograph of the Ukuku displayed at the Oba’s Palace being explained by BTC Secretary, Irabor
Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has re-emphasized the ban on the uses of traditional paraphernalia that are exclusive reserve for royalty.
This was contained in a statement made available to Journalists in Benin by the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) and signed by Chief Norense Ozigbo-Esere, Osuma of Benin, Chief Edionwe Oliha, Oliha of Benin and five other palace chiefs.
- Advertisement -
The statement which named the traditional paraphernalia as Ukuku, Ada, Eben and other symbols which are of great importance to the monarch, stated that the Ukuku is the exclusive preserve of the wives of the king and must not be worn by any woman except the Oba’s wives.
“As a result of the appeals from sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora for clarification on the use of traditional paraphernalia, His’ Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare Il, CFR, Oba of Benin, has directed that this Press Statement be issued to further enlighten the general public.
“The definition of the term Okuku is a traditional hairdo strictly for the Queens of the Oba of Benin and is not allowed to be used by any other woman.
“Note: The different aspects you see on the Okuku is of religious and cultural significance ‘which cannot be explained to the un-initiated. They are not for ‘mere decoration even though they have aesthetic value.
“Ada (scepter) and Eben (scimitar) 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.
“Ewu Iwu:’ Dress with long bead (Udeguogho) is recommended for every Benin male who wishes to adorn Benin traditional outfit in the absence of using Agbada, Buba‘and Sokoto etc.
“Photograph of Ewu Iwu dress with long bead (Udeguogho) is hereby displayed for your enlightenment.
“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”, the Oba noted in the statement.
