The harem in the palace of the king is usually a
beehive of activities with several wives of the king
participating in one chore or the other. Taking care
of the numerous princes and princesses was seen as a
collective enterprise. Indeed, the harem was a safe
haven for all. The Harem recalls a childhood
experience. In 1967, the year of the Nigerian civil
war, the king, Oba Akenzua II gathered all his
children for safe keeping in the harem. It was there
that I was born before my mother could be taken to the
hospital. The women of the harem symbolize strength
and unity as well as provide stability for their
husband in the various duties he has to perform.