The traditional authorities in Asaba, Delta State, have announced plans to strictly enforce a longstanding prohibition on the sale of ogbono seed, locally known as Okoru Enu, across all indigenous markets in Asaba communities.
The directive was announced on Sunday by the 14th Omu Ahaba of Asaba, Chief Ada Biosah, alongside the Ndi Eze Ahaba, who reaffirmed that the sale of the seed remains forbidden under Asaba customs and traditions.
Addressing journalists in Asaba, the Omu, who oversees indigenous markets and women’s affairs in the community, said the ban on the sale of ogbono seed is rooted in the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Asaba people and has been observed from time immemorial.
According to her, the renewed enforcement became necessary after the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, recently observed that the prohibited item was being openly displayed and sold in some indigenous markets, contrary to established traditional practice.
She said the development prompted the traditional institution to immediately begin sensitisation campaigns aimed at educating traders and the public on the significance of the age-old prohibition.
To ensure compliance, the Omu said market union executives and leaders had been directed to engage traders selling the product, while a specially constituted task force would monitor markets and enforce the directive against anyone who refused to comply.
She stressed that the prohibition applies specifically to the sale of ogbono seed within indigenous Asaba markets and should not be interpreted as a ban on its consumption by non-indigenes.
According to the Omu, visitors and residents who are not of Asaba origin remain free to consume ogbono soup, provided they purchase the seed outside the community’s indigenous markets and prepare it privately, in recognition of Asaba’s cultural traditions.
She appealed to traders, residents and visitors to respect the customs of the host community, describing the directive as part of ongoing efforts to preserve the cultural identity and traditional values of the Asaba people.
The Ndi Eze Ahaba unanimously endorsed the renewed enforcement of the ban, expressing unwavering support for the traditional institution and its commitment to safeguarding the community’s customs.
They also pledged to work closely with market leaders and relevant stakeholders to ensure the directive is effectively implemented and sustained across all indigenous markets in Asaba.