24th January, 2025
By Jethro Ibileke
The Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Edo State, has condemned the misuse and abuse of the Kingdom’s revered customs and traditions, particularly during marriage and burial ceremonies.
Chief Norense Ozigbo-Esere, the Osuma of Benin, made this known to journalists in Benin City on Friday, speaking on behalf of the BTC.
Ozigbo-Esere decried the growing tendency of individuals to wear Benin chieftaincy paraphernalia during such ceremonies.
He specifically referred to items like the round coral bead (Ikele), Eben (ceremonial sword), and Okuku (Queens’ headgear) as being improperly used.
He issued a stern warning, stating that any violation of these age-old customs would be met with severe consequences.
“The proper attire for a true Benin person during marriages, burials, and other social events is the Ewu Iwu dress, complemented by the long coral beads known as Udeguϙghϙ,” Ozigbo-Esere stated.
“The indiscriminate use of the coral bead (Ikele), Eben, and Okuku will no longer be tolerated by the Palace of the Oba of Benin.”
He clarified that the Eben (ceremonial sword) is reserved solely for titled chiefs when paying homage to the Oba of Benin, and should not be part of the attire for marriages or burials.
“It has also been observed that some women and cultural groups have been adorning themselves with full headgear associated with the Oba’s wives (Queens).
“Let it be known that HRM, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, has directed the Chiefs, Priests, and Priestesses of various deities in the Kingdom to place a curse on anyone who engages in this abominable and disrespectful act that tarnishes our customs and traditions as laid down by our ancestors,” he added.
