Why 'Ogbono' is forbidden in Asaba, Delta state

Ogbono soup is a Nigerian dish made out of a ogbono seeds (African Mango seeds) which is eaten by mostly people in the Southern part of the country.

However, many are unaware that Asaba, the capital of Delta state is known to have forbidden the sale and eating of ogbono among it natives.

The reason behind this taboo is that a mother goddess, named Onishe uses ogbono for spiritual cleansing, which locally means 'ife-ahu'.

Narrating how she became a goddess, it is a historical myth that during her time, Onishe was among the most beautiful ladies in the town.

She was selected among the women to participate in a village dance where the Prince will choose his wife among the dancers.

Unfortunately, upon arriving at the event, the white cloth Onishe wore got stained by the ogbono soup she had earlier.

This led to her disqualification and she committed suicide by jumping into the river despite several pleas by the villagers.

Prior to her death, she ordered the people of Asaba to avoid eating Ogbono because it had cost her life and destiny.

A deity was later built at the spot where she drained and although Ogbono trees are located at the shrine, its seeds never fall into the river.

It was said that located at the mouth of River Niger is the sacred home of the spiritual goddess, Onishe who many legends believed holds the destiny of the Asaba people.

Every day, Onishe faithful went to her vicinity with full-grown cock, goats, or even cows to seek spiritual help and protection from her.

According to Ogbueshi Nwosa Onwuegbuezie, it is hard to seek her help without getting good results.

Lining both sides of her home are big ogbono trees whose leaves or seeds don't fall on the ground.

Report indicate that the mystery behind this trace back over two centuries.

Speaking in an interview with Vanguard, the Odogwu of Asaba disclosed that Onishe is a woman who guards and guides her children's jealousy by appearing to her subjects in different forms.

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