By Ehichioya Steve Odion
Following the appeals from sons and daughters at home and in the Diaspora for clarification on the use of traditional paraphernalia in Benin Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare Il, CFR, Oba of Benin has decided to further enlighten the general public on the use of Okuku which he said is solely meant for Queens in the palace.
This was made known today by a spokesperson for the Benin monarchy, Chief Norense Ozigbo-Esere, while briefing journalists on updates regarding the use of the Benin traditional paraphernalia.
He said the term "Okuku" is a traditional HAIRDO strictly reserved for the Queens of the OBA OF BENIN, and it is not allowed to be used by any other woman.
"Photograph of the OKUKU is hereby displayed for your enlightenment. Note: The different aspects you see on the Okuku is of religious and cultural significance ‘which cannot be explained to the uninitiated. They are not for mere decoration even though they have aesthetic value.
"ADA (SCEPTRE) 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 in Ododo form and shouldn't be adorned with symbols of the Palm trees, star, moon, sun, leopard, as these are of religious and cultural significance to the Oba of Benin", said the statement.
The statement advised the general public to take note.
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