The traditional authorities in Asaba, Delta State, have announced plans to enforce the ban on the sale of ogbono seed in indigenous markets across the community.
The directive was announced by the 14th Omu Ahaba of Asaba, Chief Ada Biosah, in collaboration with the Ndi Eze Ahaba.
Ogbono seed, locally known in Asaba as Okoru Enu, is regarded as a forbidden item within the community’s traditional system.
Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Asaba, Chief Biosah said the restriction is rooted in long-standing cultural and spiritual beliefs observed by the people of Asaba for generations.
The Omu Ahaba, who oversees indigenous markets and women affairs in Asaba tradition, said the open sale of ogbono seed in local markets had become a matter of concern to the traditional institution.
She explained that the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, recently noticed that the prohibited item was being sold openly in some markets.
According to her, the development led to renewed sensitisation and enforcement plans to ensure respect for Asaba customs.
Chief Biosah said market leaders and union executives would be directed to educate traders on the traditional prohibition.
She added that a taskforce committee would also be set up to monitor compliance and take action against traders who refuse to obey the directive.
The Omu clarified that the ban does not stop non-indigenes from eating ogbono soup.
She said non-indigenes who wish to consume ogbono may buy it outside Asaba and prepare it privately, provided they respect the community’s traditional market rules.
Chief Biosah said the aim of the directive is not to target any group but to preserve Asaba’s cultural identity and protect customs handed down by previous generations.
The Ndi Eze Ahaba endorsed the decision and pledged full support for the enforcement of the ban.
They said the traditional leadership would work closely with market executives to ensure that the directive is properly understood and implemented.
The traditional chiefs also appealed to residents, traders and visitors to respect the customs of Asaba while conducting business in indigenous markets.
The planned enforcement is expected to affect traders selling ogbono seed within markets recognised under Asaba traditional authority.
The development highlights renewed efforts by the Asaba traditional institution to preserve local customs, regulate indigenous markets and strengthen cultural compliance within the community.
