A radical departure from the old informal practice
The Enijie (Kings) of Esanland have taken a historic collective decision to safeguard and reaffirm Esan cultural identity in communal gatherings. In a resolution reached at their recent meeting, the traditional rulers ordered that henceforth, in every Esan gathering, the breaking and blessing of the kola nut will be done only by the Onojie of the community if present, or by the oldest person in attendance in the absence of an Onojie.
This marks a decisive end to the old practice where Esan people, even in their homeland, sometimes invited a “Benin man” or “Irrua man” — regardless of age — to perform the kola ritual. The Enijie emphasized that such practices undermine Esan autonomy and dignity.
“Esan Akugbe, AHU! From today, the kola nut in Esanland belongs to the Onojie or the eldest among us. No longer will outsiders be called to take our pride,” the monarchs declared.
This cultural order, now binding across Esanland, is being celebrated by indigenes at home and abroad as a bold step in reclaiming and unifying Esan traditions. Elsewhere, especially in social media, some have criticised it calling it an affront on the hitherto culture of Benin breaking kolanuts in Esanland.
With this rule, the kola nut—an ancient symbol of hospitality, peace, and prayer—remains firmly in the hands of Esan custodians themselves.
SME MEDIA will continue to follow reactions from communities, diaspora groups, and cultural custodians on this development.
