The palace of the Oba of Benin ( in Nigeria)has stood for over 900 years with 40 Obas(kings)
that have ascended the throne and till today, most of its traditional rites are still being respected and kept by the Benin Kingdom.
Many things are not allowed in the Oba of Benin palace and some of the forbidden things i will share with you below:
1.No one occupies more than one chair at the Oba of Benin Palace: it is a sacrilege and a sign of disrespect to hold more than one chair in the palace of the Oba of Benin. The Oba of Benin should seat higher than everyone, and only Him can seat in two chairs, seating above everyone. It will be seen as contesting with the Oba if you seat on two chairs.
- No one is allowed to use an umbrella in court: no matter what the weather is like, no one is authorized to use an umbrella in the presence of the Oba of Benin even during festive periods.
3.Palm fruit is forbidden in The Palace: palm fruits which are popularly known as Banga is banned in the palace or from being brought close to the palace in any way. It is believed that if the Oba of Benin sees palm fruit, blood will flow in the land.
4.Dogs are not allowed in the palace: dogs are forbidden in the palace, and any dog that comes to the palace will die naturally or be killed.
5.Pointing of finger is banned in the palace: pointing of fingers is forbidden in the palace, and it is a sign of disrespect to point the finger at the Oba of Benin or His Chiefs. Also, the Oba of Benin does not point the finger at anyone either, for the Oba of Benin only points the finger at someone to bless or curse the person.
6.Whistleblowing is banned in the palace: using of a whistle is prohibited in the palace, because it is believed to be a medium of communication between the dead and the living, and someone blowing a whistle in court might alert a spirit that is unforgiving.
7.No black clothes allowed in the palace: under no condition should the Oba of Benin see black cloths as he is not supposed to mourn. Therefore no one wearing black clothing is allowed to the palace.
8.No man is allowed in the Royal women quarters: it is forbidden for any man to visit the Royal women quarters, where the Oba’s wives reside. No man, it does not matter if you are a relative or not,a man is not allowed in this quarter.
Organisation of Great Benin Kingdom Worldwide (OGBK ).