Ndi Eze Ahaba, the traditional council of monarchs, chiefs and titled elders in Asaba (natively called Ahaba), Delta State, has announced the immediate prohibition of the sale of Ogbono seeds (aka African wild mango or bush mango, which seeds come from the fruit of the Irvingia gabonensis tree) in Asaba Indigenous Markets.
Addressing a Press Briefing on Sunday, 5th July, 2026, Obi Chief Dr. Ada Biosah, the 14th Omu Ahaba of Asaba Kingdom, alongside Ndi Eze Ahaba, stated unequivocally that the sale of ogbono seed, βOkoru Enuβ, across all Asaba indigenous markets has been banned and the prohibition of the sale of Ogbono seeds will be fully implemented in the areas where the ban is to be enforced.
The Omu Ahaba stated that Ogbono seed is a forbidden item in Asaba Kingdom with traditional and spiritual consequences dating back to time immemorial.
She noted that it was recently observed by His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, that “the seed is being sold openly in our markets.
βSensitization will be carried out through various union heads and market leaders to inform all traders dealing in Ogbono seed to desist from it henceforth. A Taskforce Committee will also be set up to checkmate those who refuse to comply,β Obi Dr. Ada Biosah affirmed.
According to the Omu Ahaba, the ban does not stop non-indigenes from consuming Ogbono.
βThe mantra is simple: Donβt sell it in our indigenous markets. You can buy it outside Asaba and cook it in your residence for consumption. This is our tradition and it must be obeyed, despite the hospitality of Asaba people,β she clarified.
Ndi Eze Ahaba, the institution led by the Asagba of Ahaba, the paramount traditional ruler, which is responsible for preserving the cultural heritage, administering customary laws and maintaining communal order in the community, were all in attendance and reaffirmed full support for the directive, even as they pledged to work with market leaders to ensure compliance.
Reported By Chukwura Ogechukwu Charles, Palace Media Assistant.