Things You Must Never Try or Do at Oba of Benin Palace

Oba Of Benin

 

    In Nigeria, there are several Kingdoms. Among these, Benin Kingdom in  Edo State is one of the most reserved. It has existed for over 900 years. But one thing that has continued to surprise many is how it has lasted without been altered by western education. It is one of the most sacred Kingdom in Nigeria. The name of the king is referred to as Oba.

   In the palace, there are some restricted areas as a visitor you dear not Step your foot on. It is always advised to look for guide while in the palace.

   Below are things that you must not do in or around the Oba's palace. They are sacred  to the kingdom, if you do, it has dear consequences.

Pointing of fingers

It is forbidden to point fingers at either the Oba or his chiefs in the palace. It is said that the Oba does not point fingers at anyone as well, except in a bid to bless or curse an individual.

Whistling

The Bini ethnic nationality believe that whistling is a communication medium between mortals and spirits as well as the dead. There are several deities within the Oba’s palace and the belief is that no one is sure of which deity is roused during whistling.

Open umbrella during festivals

Only the Oba is allowed to be covered with an umbrella during festivities or when he is going out. All guests, chiefs and visitors are to bear any harsh weather.

Wearing black clothes

Anybody wearing black is not allowed to enter the Oba’s palace. Such a person is sent away because such attires indicate mourning in many cultures. Palace sources say it is a taboo for the Oba to mourn, no matter the circumstance. He is not allowed to see black clothes.

Women not allowed at Ehengbuda Shrine

Women are not allowed to go near the Ehengbuda Shrine. Historians say Oba Ehemugba was born a haemophrodyte and that after powerful witch doctors worked on him, the female parts were removed. He was later paraded naked around the community. Any female – girl or woman – who enters the area immediately becomes infertile. To avoid barrenness among Benin girls and women, a ban is placed on females from entering the shrine’s vicinity.

Male visitors not allowed into royal harem

Male visitors are not allowed to enter the royal harem where the Oba’s wives stay. Male relatives of the Oba’s wives are also disallowed from entering or extending hands for greetings.

Carrying Banga (palm oil fruits) around the palace

It is a taboo to carry palm oil fruits on the head in or around the palace. Even vehicles carrying palm oil fruits are not allowed to pass through the streets near the Oba’s palace. The presence of palm oil fruits around the palace is said to be an indication that the land wants blood.

Dogs not allowed within the palace

Any dog that strays with the palace vicinity is killed or dies naturally.

Don’t occupy two chairs at the same time

It is seen as a great sign of disrespect to the throne, if one get to occupy two seats. It is believed that the Oba alone should be seated on the most elevated seat which is the throne of his fathers. In sitting on two seats, one would be seen as contesting the throne with the oba.