ORO (DEITY)
Culture and history are two inseparable and
indispensable aspect of life with regards to tradition as well as contemporary
scenerios. They are interwoven and work hands in gloves. Both have helped to
develop every individuals in creating mentality and also shapen believe system.
This implies that the total way of life of an individual can be passed on from
persons to persons even if the great grand fathers who were the pioneer are
dead of which some persons were not practically involved in the activities but
base on what they grew to hear, see and read they can ensure continuity; which
is very essential as far as existence is concern. Hence the need for this
interesting write up.
I grew up to see some events happening in my
community, it's never seem to be strange as some people see it. I was told it's
a norm and that only the males can actively and fully participate, on the
condition that they have to reach a particular age and also have to be
introduced to this deity for initiation and blessings. This is wow; really
amazing and on the other hand, it's incredible.
It was told that the celebration of the egungun
(the local name for masquerade) happens once in a year and that it's such a
great and massive gathering of people both old and young far and near. It was
becoming real to me as I increased in knowledge gradually transiting or
metamorphosing from infant to teenager to adult. It becomes a moment that
everyone within my age range and above are clamouring for and looking forward
to seeing. When the time of Oro festival is approaching, everyone agitates and
joyfully prepare towards the day.
This particular year, happened to be a red
lettered day in the history of Oro festival in the community. It's indeed a
memorable and irreversible day. As earlier said, only males that have been
taken for initiation can be part of the razzle dazzle and hullabaloo of the
occasion, markets will be shut down, movement will be restricted with five days
that this will happen. Besides, it is an abberation for strangers and females
to see the Oro otherwise, they will be used as or sacrilege.
On this day, an heavily pregnant young lady was
found dead somewhere in the compound where herself and her husband rented.
After much investigation, it was reported by one of the tenants said that she
heard her whispering to herself that she was going to see and nothing is going
to happen to her. This instil more fear in the heart of many.
Time after time, the active men grew older in age
having gray hair and wrinkled faces. it is customary that the younger once who
have been following keenly and strictly to occupy the position of power. At
this juncture, they have to consult the oracle. Prior to this, I have heard
some people talk to me about their God, which I was not convince but was
contemplating about it. However, I finally decide to change location and to
further my education. It is actually true that experience is the best teacher
and I can vividly say that based on my exposure to such life, it has made me
see life as supernatural and spiritual. The event is still on till date, but I
supposed it is not as effective as it were.
Oro festival is a traditional routine that is
still practice in many parts of Africa of which Nigeria is one for many
reasons.
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