The first place that comes to mind is
the very popular Python Temple in Ouidah, Benin Republic. The temple is
a historical and modern symbolism of spiritual practice in Benin
republic. It also acts as a basilica for voodoo worshippers in West Africa and all over the world. In this town, pythons are respected and worshipped, rather than feared.
Here are four towns in Nigeria that still worship the python.
1 . Nembe, Bayelsa state
In Nembe, the python is considered a totem.
People in this part of the country believe that the python is only a
manifestation of a Spirit being, some sort of deity. When a python is
spotted in a home or on the road, it is not killed, but rather removed
using traditional methods. A dead python is buried respectfully if found
in Nembe.
2 . Idemili, Anambra state
In Idemili local government area of Anambra
state, the python is loved, feared and worshipped. The snake, called Eke
by Igbos, lives in harmony with the members of these towns. The python
is a respected deity in these parts and there are shrines dedicated to
the worship of Eke. It is completely forbidden to kill a python here, as
it has grave consequences.
3 . Imo state
Just like in Anambra state, the python is a
feared deity in many parts of Imo state. Some say the python helped
natives to escape several dangers during the civil war.
4 . Machina, Yobe state
In this part of Yobe state, snakes, of an
unknown specie, are very reverred. They are believed to be part of the
royal family so it is taboo to kill this type of snake. The snakes come
out when the royals are celebrating or when they are mourning. They have
venom but do not harm people when they come out.
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