Masquerade festival in nigeria Agemo Festival is a masked or masquerade festival traditionally held in many Yoruba cities but more popularly linked with the Ijebu people of Ogun State. ARGUNGU (FISHERMEN) FESTIVAL. Nevertheless, the present practise needs to be revisited. Odo: Odo is a masquerade of the Igbo people peculiar to the northern Igbo people of Enugu State. 2. 1 The Odo Festival is an intensely affective celebration? having a relative return in Odo form is an honor and a Apr 10, 2021 · The Ugo masquerade like any other animal-spirit masquerade (Atu, Mmanwu Odum, Agu Iyi, etc. 4. Egungun festival is one of the prominent traditional festivals that attract people from all walks of life. Jan 1, 2017 · Paper Presented at the National Workshop on Rural Developnment and Mass Mobilization, University of Nigeria, Nsukka Okpoko, P. . The Odo masquerade festival holds symbolic relevance to the Ngwo people. The festival and accompanying rituals are celebrated to honor the spirit deity Agemo , who is believed to be a protector of children and who safeguards Ijebus future through its blessing. Egungun is the Yoruba Jul 15, 2022 · In the year 2000, the Eyo festival was held to commemorate the death of Justice G. Ekpo Masquerade is one of the oldest institutions in Africa which was known to maintain law and order in the society. In many communities in the state of Anambra in South-Eastern Nigeria, celebrations, burial ceremonies and other special In northern Igbo territory in southeastern Nigeria, many towns celebrate the Odo masquerade festival, which honors the dead by helping them to return in masked form to their families and communities (Fig. Towering at about 12 to 15 Jul 22, 2023 · The Eyo festival, also known as the Adamu Orisa Play, is a revered traditional Nigerian masquerade with deep cultural significance in the Yoruba community. These rich and colourful festivals involve a series of elaborate masked dances and are celebrated throughout Yoruba culture during the dry season — December through March. Held in Enugu state in Nigeria, the Mmanwu festival majorly features entertaining masquerade displays, as well as other interesting cultural activities. Jun 6, 2023 · In Nigeria, one of the several cultural practices that remains today, despite the massive conversion of the Yoruba people to Christianity and Islam, is the Egungun festival. The Eyo Festival, otherwise known as the Adamu Orisha Play, [1] is a Yoruba festival unique to Lagos, Nigeria and has a strong historical footing in Iperu-Remo, a town in Ikenne Local Government, Ogun State. Eyos (the masquerade celebrate a the Oba’s (king) life. Held at the Birmingham Museum of Art Gelede Body Mask Gelede mask, Afro-Brazilian Museum, São Paulo. The level of apprehension and the noise that await the appearance of a masquerade, will vary, depending on the type of the masquerade, and the size and make-up of the audience. Mark your 2019 social calendar with these exciting events and festivals in Nigeria. Aug 26, 2021 · The Egungun Festival is a widely celebrated festival amongst the Yoruba people of Western Nigeria. Masquerading is the main focus of this study and serves as one of the greatest festivals among the Igbo. The festival is usually an annual celebration performed within the months of November to April when there is no rain, with Ijele is a special masquerade in Anambra and Enugu State, Nigeria. Igunnuko Festival is the celebration of the tallest masquerade in the world. Masquerade clothes are designed colourful and sometimes, plain like Eyo masquerade. U. Eyo festival is the most spectacular cultural fiesta held in south west Nigeria. The Eyo Festival, held in Lagos State, is a culturally rich event that takes place on Lagos Island. 1 The Odo Festival is an intensely affective celebration? having a relative return in Odo form is an honor and a There is an annual masquerade festival in November organised by Enugu State and involves masquerade groups from various parts of the state. There is an annual masquerade festival in November organised by Enugu State and involves masquerade groups from various Ekpo is founded on the belief in life after death; and it is regarded as the soul or ghost of ancestors that return to the land of the living in masquerade form to participate with their kinsmen in communal festivals such as farming and rites of passage. This lively event, deeply rooted in Yoruba tradition, is a masquerade parade that draws locals and tourists alike. Coker, a Lagos high chief, the Olori Adimu, and the Olori Eyo of the Adimu Eyo cultural masquerade. 6. [1] The masquerade emanates from the Nupe , Niger Kogi , Kwara state and Abuja in Nigeria. They dance, sing and recite incantations. 🎭 Witness the masqueraders The classic Owu masquerade and play at Orsu-Obodo re-enacts sacred myth and evokes the order of Oru-Igbo civilization; Now-no-no represents the opposite, chaos. Some masquerades are revered because they never come out, only at very important events. The Nwaotam Masquerade: Nwaotam Masquerade is being celebrated annually 25 of December in Bonny Island. It is generally believed in the Igboland that the masquerade is a spirit which springs from the soil. It is the celebration of New Yam Season. Aug 26, 2024 · 5. Historically held to honour deceased kings or chiefs, the festival transforms the streets of Lagos into a sea of white as performers, called “Eyo,” don flowing agbadas and wide-brimmed hats. Ijele. This economic boost underscores the festival’s role in promoting cultural tourism in Nigeria. During the festival, the ‘Obi’ also confer chieftaincy titles on sons of the soil and other dignitaries who are worthy of the titles. 6 days ago · Every July in Ibadan, the Oloolu masquerade appears to celebrate the Oloolu festival, which is said to bring favors to the region. There are hosts of other masquerades in Igbo land that serve various purposes Gelede mask from the Yoruba people of Nigeria. [ 1 ] There is an annual masquerade festival called Ogbako Mmanwu (masquerade party), where masquerade parties gather in village squares or open air for entertainment in most Igbo communities. It’s believed by some that the masquerade takes away sickness and poverty, bringing wealth and longevity. Mmanwu festival . [2] Aug 5, 2023 · The Gelede Masquerade is a celebration of the power and importance of women in Yoruba society, and it is a spectacle that showcases the creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural identity of the Nigerian people. The masquerades are classified into categories based on specialization. It is thought to represent the spirits of the ancestors. Presently, the 45 masquerades are represented by the 45 figurines seen on top of Ijele. Oct 19, 2023 · Eyo Festival in Lagos. Four main types of masquerader are identified by the roles they play: those who embody deities or nature spirits and to whom sacrifice is made to assure the fertility of land and people, those who embody the ancestral spirits, those who placate the spirits through their A king with an enviable personality,for it is said that to preserve the personality bit which makes you stand out from the crowd at one point in the future,your uniqueness will have to shine and the world will be your creative playground. Whoever it chooses to wear the head and regalia gets paid heavily for that. The masks worn by the Egungun represent a spirit of a particular person. Lagos, Nigeria, hosts one of the grandest and most colorful cultural festivals in Africa—the Eyo Festival. Eagles are highly respected birds in Igbo land. They have a variety of themes. Jan 10, 2018 · The Egungun is a secret society of masqueraders of the Yoruba People who live in the area of Western Nigeria and Eastern Benin. The Mmonwu masquerade has been experiencing a level of decline in its activities as a result of challenges in the late twentieth century. Nov 20, 2022 · Adamu Orisa Play, also known as Eyo masquerade and frequently performed on the streets of Lagos Island, Eko, is the most revered and significant festival in Eyo Lagos. Jul 2, 2021 · Masquerade are key figures in Nigeria festivities. The Egungun is a secret society among the Yoruba people of Oyo State, Nigeria. Oloolu masquerade makes appearances in Ibadan’s most vibrant neighborhoods, including Popo-Yemoja, Beere, Oja’ba, and others. Each masquerade has its own unique identity and purpose, and it is often associated with a particular deity or ancestral spirit. Onwa Ebo Festival This festival is peculiar to the Orba people in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State. What is the Eyo Festival? Also called the Adimu Orisa Play, it is a grand masquerade with a display of pomp and pageantry. Igugu/Eliminya Festival, Imakhize Village, Otuo, January 12, 2003. So, the more Mar 22, 2023 · During this festival, the Egungun masquerade goes out dressed in colourful regalia, carries a whip and flogs anyone in the way of the spirits. 1. and E. African dance - Masquerade, Rituals, Celebrations: Masquerade dancers are a feature of religious societies in many areas. In Nigeria, they also depict the origins of particular ethinicgroup. Ogbomoso people like other Yorubas believe in Olodumare or Olorun,who is worshipped through the divinities, one of which is Egungun. This traditional festival is celebrated by the Yoruba people, who are known for their deep-rooted cultural practices and artistic expressions. Myth informs of and also enforces cultural norms and ideas (Barthes 1972). Sep 25, 2023 · Step into the heart of Enugu's rich cultural heritage with us as we explore the mesmerizing Masquerade Festival in the picturesque town of Obollo. Jun 10, 2023 · The masquerade is a highly symbolic performance that is steeped in tradition and meaning. Whatever the case maybe, th Eyo Bajulaiye Ineso masquerade in a residential area of Lagos near the Tafawa Balewa Square. The other communities in the Agbarha-Ame kingdom of Warri are Otovwodo-Agbarha, Oteghele, Ukpokiti, Ogunu, Edjegba and Okurode-Urhobo. May 18, 2015 · There are different types of Masquerades, from Ojionu (water spirit masquerade depicted by water creatures to Agaba, Mkpamkpanu, Enyi mmanwu (elephant), Mmanwu Ugo (Eagle), Mmanwu Ube (tortoise) and Ijele which is always outstanding because of its resplendent attire. Ngozi Udengwu* and Ikechukwu Erojikwe** Uzo-iyi Masquerade Festival of Umuoji in Anambra State, South-Eastern Nigeria, March 2022. These 45 masquerades are currently represented by the statues atop Ijele. The name "Ekpo" means ghost. This festival is dedicated to Osun, the Yoruba goddess of fertility, water, and prosperity, and it typically takes place in the month of August. It is a tradition with deep historical roots in Nigeria. Apr 30, 2023 · Eyo masquerade, also known as Adamu Orisa Play, is a prominent cultural and traditional festival in Yoruba culture. The Eyo masquerade is the only one that takes place on Lagos Island. Quite obviously performers in costume, the ancient practice of honoring masquerades has been used by our people to connect to the divine through the souls and memories of the ancestors. The Olojo Festival is a culture festival in the calendar of the Ile-Ife, Osun State which is located in the Southwestern part of Nigeria. 1). Aug 5, 2023 · Exploring the Vibrant Festivals of Gelede Masquerade in Nigeria. This immersive experience takes you on a journey through the traditions and customs of the Igbo people, offering a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of their identity. EGUNGUN MASQUERADE FESTIVAL IN OGBOMOSOLAND AND ITS IMPLICATION FOR CHRISTIAN WITNESS, 2015. 45 different masquerades have previously performed on top of Ijele, the King of All Masquerades. Aug 26, 2024 · The Evolution of Masquerade Dance in Modern Nigeria. Dec 31, 2019 · Ajikwu masquerade is used to collect fines (ida nha) – any household the masquerade visits at night must lose something valuable, like a goat or an expensive casting. On November 26, 2011, another event was conducted to honour the life of Lagos aristocrat Prince Yesufu Abiodun Oniru. The masquerades each represent a village’s ancestors or gods, and as such, only chosen members of a community may wear it. Odo masquerade represents a deity who affords the living a chance to commune with their dead in line with the Igbo Traditional belief. The first procession in Lagos was on the 20th of February,1954 to commemorate the life of the Oba Akintoye. This festival, as others do, signifies social control and ancestral reverence, celebrating the transitions of age-grades. The Egungun festival is a part of the Yoruba traditional religion . In the Yoruba tradition, when the Igunnuko masquerade emerged at festivals or ritual ceremonies, they are believed to be deities. Their meanings can range from anything including life, death, and fertility. The identity of the masquerade is a well-kept secret and the roles are performed exclusively by men. Several Nigerian tribes believe that they stand for ancestors, while others feel they are gods. The Egungun festival varies from town to town depending on the ancestral history of the place. Nov 1, 2023 · 5. This masquerade festival is peculiar to Umuahia people and it will be celebrated on 23 January 2024. Feb 21, 2024 · The masquerade has enormous tourist potential, generating income for the community and state. Mmonwu Masquerade Performing during Art and Cultural Festival, Asaba in Delta State, Nigeria. Mar 27, 2025 · Readers, have you ever wondered about the vibrant and captivating world of Yoruba masquerade customs in Nigeria? These spectacular festivals are more than just entertainment; they are deeply rooted in history, tradition, and spirituality. The women portray “mothers”, who sponsor new plays and as supporters who perform in concert in between masquerade plays. The major Egungun festival takes place in June, when members of the… Jan 7, 2021 · Nairaland Forum / Nairaland / General / Culture / Masquerade Festival Celebration In Akwa Ibom State (Videos, Photos) (25858 Views) 2024 New Yam Festival Celebration In Nnewi Anambra State (video/pic) / Ekpeye Masquerade Festival In Rivers State (Photos) / Omabe Masquerade Festival In Enugu Ezike, A Nairalander's Village (Photos) This is a fairly new addition to the annual festival calendar of Nigeria, since it first commenced in 2006, although is held annually and is dubbed “Nigeria’s largest street party. Mmanwu is a traditional masquerade of the Igbo people of Southeastern Nigeria. This is one festival in which the different regalia of the Kalabari people are displayed. But the Ajikwu can easily be corrupted and used by evil masquerade chiefs to terrorize the innocent. The mystique surrounding the masquerade is one of the key components of the Igbo culture that survived Western influences. [1] May 20, 2021 · In the 1980s, local masquerade practices suffered another setback with the emergence of Pentecostalism in Nigeria and the Nsukka area in particular. It is considered one of the oldest masquerade traditions in Nigeria and is The traditions discussed include a powerful, protective masquerade said to be the most ancient tradition and most closely linked to Edo history, the many masquerade types of diverse origins incorporated into an annual festival honoring ancestors and cleansing the community that took its present form at the end of the 19th century, and a social The Odo tradition is a masquerade festival celebrated every two years by the people of Amaeke Ngwo in Enugu State. May 22, 2016 · There is an annual masquerade festival in November organised by Enugu State and involves masquerade groups from various parts of the state. Historically, masquerade dances were deeply rooted in the spiritual and communal life of various ethnic groups, serving Jan 25, 2025 · The Eyo Festival, often described as a spectacle of white-clad regalia, is a traditional Yoruba masquerade festival unique to Lagos Island. Jul 12, 2023 · Across Nigeria, the role of the masquerade is perhaps the most important link, serving as the mouthpiece of the creator. These masquerade festivals are remarkable with one type of activity or the other, with Okumkpo masquerade festival most prominent. The festival is known for its striking procession of tall, white-clad masquerades that move through the streets, creating a captivating spectacle. By Aminat Olanrewaju. The festival takes place usually between August and October, though the time varies from one community to the other. Oji Onu is a happy masquerade mostly used for The Ikeji festival is an annual four-day festival held by the Igbo people of Arondizuogu, [1] in Imo state, Nigeria, between the months of March and April to celebrate the harvest of new yams and the Igbo culture. Jul 24, 2022 · Masquerade and masquerading are rooted in the culture and traditions of the different tribes in Nigeria and they are all different from each other in terms of functions and festivals. seven days to the day Egungun, Yoruba language: Egúngún, also known as Ará Ọ̀run (The collective dead) in the broadest sense is any Yoruba masquerade or masked, costumed figure. Ijele Masquerade, known as the biggest Masquerade in Sub-Saharan Africa, is a tradition of the Igbo people of Nigeria and was listed in the UNESCO Archives as an intangible cultural element in need of urgent safeguarding [1]. Born as Prince Ikenna C Okoli on 28th February,1971 to HRH Eze (Sir) Osita C Okoli IV (Late) and Lady Bibian E Okoli (late)’Ezenwanyi’. Also on November 26, 2011, another festival was held to commemorate the life of Prince Yesufu Abiodun Oniru, a Lagos nobleman. The Eyo Festival The Eyo is the masquerade that comes out only in Lagos Island. The practice has been seen throughout history from the prehistoric era to present day. Figure 2. This fishing festival was first held in 1934 to signal the end of hostilities between Kebbi and the Sokoto caliphate and it promotes unity among the participants. For example, its humorous language and dances can be documented and sold. The Gẹlẹdẹ spectacle of the Yoruba is a public display by colorful masks which combines art and ritual dance to amuse, educate and inspire worship. One happens every year in November in the Enugu State, Nigeria and it involves people in their costumes that come from all over the state. Dec 12, 2014 · The masquerade appears during traditional celebrations (funerals) and festivals (new yam festival). The Egungun worship the ancestors and provide a means of contact with the ancestral spirits. it's a very spiritual Masquerade and every year the NWAOTAM chooses who to wear the Nwaotam Masquerade head and regalia from their cult group. Whatever the case, they are respected because they believed to be mystical and hold related powers. Aug 14, 2023 · There are other cultural presentations in addition to masquerade dances. The Gelede Masquerade is a festival that takes place in various Yoruba communities across Nigeria. [1] More specifically, it is a Yoruba masquerade for ancestor reverence, or the ancestors themselves as a collective force. Egungun is an annual masquerade festival that publicly honours ancestral spirits. Originating in the early 19th century in Lagos State, it evolved from the ancient practice of honoring deceased kings or chiefs. [1] Dec 10, 2021 · These 5 masquerades are the most popular in Nigeria, even if you do not know their names, you must have heard about them or seen them at certain ceremonies. The OPANBATA is considered the staff of the office of the EYOs and it is made from palm fronds and a stick which is decorated with an artistic inscription to give it uniqueness and more beauty. Jan 31, 2021 · During Odo festival, The dead are said to work freely among the living through the manifestation of this masquerade. Sep 20, 2022 · The Eyo. Masquerade is defined as a party or group of people with masks. It is these indigenes, who celebrate the Eyo festival, a cultural and traditional masquerade display, which emerges from the Iga (palace) of the Oba or any of his cabinet members. Additionally, there is another very important festival for Igbo people and Nigerians in general. Its origins are found back in the olden days of strict secret societies when the festival was held to escort the soul of departed Oba’s (kings) of Lagos and to usher in a new one. The most celebrated festival among this people is Nwaotam in which bona-fide Ibani sons and daughters, in a colourful display of culture, accompany their masquerade into the river as directed by the god of their land. This influx of visitors stimulates economic activity, benefiting local vendors, artisans, and the broader community. Pentecostal teaching emphasises the work of the The other festival with high social significance carried out by most communities in Igboland is the new Yam (Iri Ji) festival, which marks the beginning of the harvest seasons for new yam. The Ekpe festival has Apr 15, 2018 · Large masquerade (Ugbokpa), sometimes called ‘umbrella’, followed by a smaller, flat ‘whipping’ masquerade (Olu) moving from playing ground to playing ground at the beginning of the festival. Mmanwu // ⓘ is a traditional masquerade of the Igbo people of Southeastern Nigeria. Nigeria is a country rich in cultural heritage, and one of its most vibrant and captivating festivals is the Gelede Masquerade. Nigeria's traditional festivals are fascinating annual or biennial events where community members celebrate aspects of their age-long culture with enthralling activities and due reverence. Goge Africa crew, was present this past weekend to witness this ancient biennial festival, held in Ngwo, Enugu state. MASQUERADE FESTIVAL Masquerade Festival is most common among the Yorubas and Igbo. Majority of the masquerades are youths with strength to make dance moves and jumps. Goge Africa crew member. In Nigeria, masquerades appear during festivals, ceremonies or rituals. The major highlight of this Umuahia masquerade festival is the Ekpe masquerade beheading a goat with a single strike of the machete. The other festival with high social significance carried out by most communities in Igboland is the new Yam (Iri Ji) festival, which marks the beginning of the harvest seasons for new yam. Coker, a Lagos high chief and the Olori Adimu of the Adimu Eyo cultural masquerade. 29| Chapter Two Gender in Owu, a Timed Masquerade Festival of the Riverine Igbo, Southeast Nigeria Sabine Jell-Bahlsen INTRODUCTION This paper presents a case study of gender in Igbo culture focusing on the female side in the Owu complex of myth and masking of the Riverine Igbo. In Afikpo, masquerading is classified into three, namely 'Iri Iko', 'Igwugwu' and Okumkpo. In Ebonyi, the festival features dozens of masquerades that thrill spectators in annual festivals and other events. Giving an insight into the masquerade, a member of the family Mr Ojeyemi Sodo said the elders consult the masquerade with a kolanut to decide who to carry it, and if they do otherwise and chose anyone themselves, the person will die. Some of them are with curved images on their head. 3. Jul 8, 2017 · There are several Igbo masquerade festivals in Nigeria over the year. Oct 20, 2013 · This years Carnival will feature some Olobor (Masquerade ) from the Eastern part of Nigeria, from Delta Ijaw, Itsekiri, from Kogi and from Esan in Edo state. Notable among masquerade festivals is the annual masquerade festival organized by Enugu State in November, including masquerade groups from different parts. Mar 29, 2025 · The Argungu Fishing Festival is a festival that is held in Kebbi State, in the Northern part of Nigeria and it is an event that lasts for four days. Jul 26, 2024 · The Eyo Festival, also known as the Adamu Orisha Play, is a unique cultural event held in Lagos, Nigeria. 2) Agemo masquerade Agemo masquerade is common with In Igbo culture, the masquerade (Mmanwu) embodies the spirit and human worlds. A masquerade ceremony (or masked rite, festival, procession or dance) is a cultural or religious event involving the wearing of masks. The Myth of Origin The Owu-Okoroshi masquerade and festival is based on a myth. Traditionally organized by the Yoruba people, the festival is a vibrant celebration honoring the reigning Oba of Lagos or the memory of a notable Lagosian. The Ofala festival is a royal celebration that proves kings know how to party, too! The Impact of Cultural Events on Nigerian Society Mar 21, 2013 · The last festival was held in 1991 before the present King ordered that of 29th January, 2009. It is the New Yam festival. Mmonwu Masquerade in a Street at Ashaka, in Ndokwa East Local Figure 5. nigeria >> states of nigeria >> ondo state >> egungun festival The Egungun (or masquerade) festival is an important celebration amongst the Yoruba people, who believe that the masked figures represent the spirits of the dead who return annually to reunite with the living. Masquerade FestivalAccording to traditional Igbo beliefs, masquerades represent images of deities or relatives. Aug 22, 2019 · 17. May 2, 2015 · Any member of the family chosen by the gods is allowed to lead the masquerade out during its annual festival. The tradition of masquerade dance in Nigeria has undergone a fascinating evolution, adapting to the changing cultural landscape while still retaining its core significance. Okonkwo (2004) " Resuscitating masquerade festival for The Eyo festival also known as the Adamu Orisha Play is a popular Yoruba carnival that is unique to Lagos State in Nigeria. It is led by five groups of Orisas (deities). The complete regalia of the Eyo includes a white flowing gown that covers the hands and feet (AGA), a headgear, and a staff which is called “OPANBATA“. The Ijele masquerade, which originated in the Old Anambra state, is the largest mask ritual in recorded history. The Egungun festival often takes place around the middle of the year between July and August and it is celebrated with much enthusiasm, funfair and festivities. This festival usually takes place between the month of August and December. Ugbokpa and Olu masquerades in Uzawa Village playing ground with age company Nov 19, 2023 · Additionally, the festival attracts tourists, offering a glimpse into Nigeria’s rich traditions and history. EYO FESTIVAL. B. Each masquerade May 8, 2020 · The masquerade season in Ibadan Oyo State Capital is drawing nearer let’s take a look at the “Egungun” tradition a prominent way of life for the people of Ibadan. [2] The Otsa festival embraces women dancers in addition to the male, the tradition masquerade dancers. You will likely only see the Ugo masquerade displaying on big occasions like ofalas. See what's on every month, including traditional celebrations, world-class music events, arts and film festivals, and more incredible festivals happening around Africa! Sep 15, 2023 · The Osun Festival, also known as the Osun Osogbo Festival, is an annual cultural and religious festival celebrated by the Yoruba people in southwestern Nigeria, particularly in the city of Osogbo. It is arguably the largest masquerade parade in West Africa. The Ọjọjọ masquerade festival is celebrated exclusively by Igbudu community, one of the seven communities that make up the Agbarha-Ame kingdom of Warri, Nigeria. It is a lively cultural festival that attracts people from in and outside the state. ” It is a month-long carnival from December 1 to 31 every year, and has a program of events including dancing, music, and other cultural events; something Jan 7, 2021 · Ekpo Masquerade is a cultural play that was originated from the Efik, Ibibio and Annang people in the Cross River/Akwa Ibom land in Southern part of Nigeria. They are performed only by males in exclusive secret societies and involve the use of elaborate, colorful costumes that are meant to invoke ancestral spirits. During Odo festival, The dead is said to work freely among the living. It is the King of all Masquerades and as such has 45 different other masquerades perform on top of it in the olden days. The other festival with high social significance carried out by most communities in the entire Igboland is the new Yam (Iri Ji) festival, which marks the beginning of the harvest seasons for new yam. Oji Onu Masquerade. YAM FESTIVAL Yam Festival is common among the Igbo. Dec 25, 2011 · Nwaotam -is the most famous and celebrated masquerade of the Ibani people. Masquerades in NigeriaMany cultures in Nigeria believe that masquerades represent the ancestors while some believe they are gods. His arrival as the Mar 17, 2021 · One of such heritage which has drawn indigenes and tourists alike, from far and near, is the Odo masquerade festival. Sep 22, 2022 · An example is the Ekpo masquerade festival celebrated by the Annang people of Akwa Ibom state Nigeria. The indigenes of Lagos are mostly domiciled in Lagos Island, known also as, Isale Eko. The significant gathering of the masquerade also puts it on the tourist list of the state and Nigeria at large. A. Oct 12, 2019 · Eyo Festival, also known as Adimu Orisa, is a masquerade festival in Lagos. The masquerades dress in colourful robes and masks made of wood or In northern Igbo territory in southeastern Nigeria, many towns celebrate the Odo masquerade festival, which honors the dead by helping them to return in masked form to their families and communities (Fig. ) embodies both the mannerisms and significance of the ugo bird (African eagle). The masquerade is believed to be a manifestation of the spirit, and it is treated with great reverence and respect. It is the celebration of the remembrance of “ Ogun ”, god of Iron, who is believed to be the first son of Oduduwa , progenitor of the Yoruba people . Aug 23, 2017 · Nigeria’s annual Egungun festival is a centuries old Yoruba tradition, and one of the most colourful cultural celebrations in West and Central Africa. Jun 24, 2024 · The festival also features masquerade displays and cultural dances. It is performed to mark the death of important personalities, the festival is common among the Egbas, Egbados, Oyo and other parts of south western Nigeria. Sep 6, 2023 · The Eyo festival was held in 2000 to celebrate the death of Justice G. Edozie Udeze who witnessed this year’s celebration which began on January 9th Jan 11, 2011 · The masquerade appears during traditional celebrations (funerals) and festivals (new yam festival). For avoidance of doubt, the Owu-Aru-Sun festival show cases all the masquerades of the Ekine Sekiapu Society, their dance styles and steps. A total of 30 Mask wearing Masquerade will be displayed come this December 2013. They are performed only by males in exclusive secret societies and involve the Masquerading is the main focus of this study and serves as one of the greatest festivals among the Igbo. eskytly kbk xwldnba nnrpqvmcz vwkn llqidy dwdsvg sfzscx cseilg ksxo tmcru sprak xyn omjj tdjfn