The Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Edo State, has reiterated that Okuku traditional hairdo remains strictly for the Oba’s wives (Queens).
The BTC in a statement on Thursday, clarified that the Okuku was not for decorations, hence, “it is not allowed to be used by other women.”
The Osuma of Benin, Chief Norense Ozigbo-Esere made the clarification during a press briefing at the Oba’s palace in Benin City.
He said the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, directed that the general public should be enlightened on the Okuku ban, following appeals from the kingdom’s sons and daughters in diaspora who sought for clarification.
While displaying photographs of Okuku, he said: “The different aspects you see of Okuku is of religious and cultural significance which cannot be explained to the uninitiated.”
According to Chief Norense the ban on public use of Ada (sceptre) and Eben (Scimitar) during social events remain in force, and, according to him, “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 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,” he pointed out.
