By Dada Ahmed.
In many African cultures, including Egbiraland in Kogi Central, masquerades are seen as spiritual or ancestral figures, serving as symbols of cultural and communal values. These masked performers are traditionally viewed with awe, as they help preserve heritage, entertain the community, and foster social cohesion.
Historically, masquerades in Egbiraland appeared during significant festivals, such as the Eche-Ozi Ete after the harvest, where they honored ancestors and celebrated communal achievements. They were respected for their spiritual and cultural roles, which helped uphold moral values and reinforce traditional customs.
However, in recent years, particularly with increased urbanization and modern influences, the cultural essence of masquerades, particularly the day time ones,has diminished. Indiscriminate outing of this class of masquerades, often outside their proper context, has raised concerns among community leaders and associations in the land. The concern in many quarters has been that,this shift risks eroding Egbiraland’s cultural heritage and causing social discord.
One key factor behind this change is the weakening of traditional power structures once upheld by elders and rulers. Today, masquerades are sometimes displayed without regulation, contributing to their misuse. To address this issue, the role of traditional rulers and cultural associations is crucial in restoring control and preserving the integrity of this practice.
Traditional rulers, such as the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland must reaffirm their authority as custodians of culture by establishing guidelines that regulate masquerade outings. This could involve convening a council of elders to oversee the timing, frequency, and conduct of masquerade performances, curbing their indiscriminate appearances.
Furthermore, education and awareness are essential. Cultural associations like the Ebira Peoples Association (EPA) should lead initiatives to educate the younger generation on the historical and spiritual significance of masquerades. Public forums, cultural programs, and festivals can foster respect for these traditions, ensuring they are not exploited.
A regulatory framework involving both associations and traditional councils could also help formalize the rules governing masquerade outings. This could include a registry of recognized masquerade groups, clear guidelines on performance periods, and penalties for violations. Enforcement could be coordinated with local law enforcement and vigilante groups.
In addition,traditional rulers and associations should work to promote positive cultural practices, ensuring masquerades remain symbols of unity and peace. Integrating masquerades into community development programs and using them for peaceful festivals would help preserve their cultural value.
Given the occasional association of masquerades with violence, conflict resolution mechanisms could be established, using masquerades as mediators rather than aggressors. In this way, they can return to their traditional role as enforcers of justice and community harmony.
The fact remains that the indiscriminate outing of masquerades in Egbiraland threatens both cultural heritage and social stability. However, with the active involvement of traditional rulers and cultural associations, this trend can be reversed.
By restoring traditional authority, educating the public, and implementing regulatory measures, these institutions can preserve the rich cultural legacy of the Egbira masquerades while promoting peace in the community.
As custodians of tradition, it is imperative that traditional rulers in Egbiraland rise to the challenge of safeguarding their cultural heritage for future generations.
This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Ahmed O. Yusuf, President General of the Okengwe Development Association (ODA), who recently expressed concern over the rising cases of indiscriminate masquerade outings in Okengwe-Ehi, urging leaders to take immediate action to prevent potential conflicts and preserve peace.
He said: “I wish to express the concerns of the ODA regarding the troubling increase in indiscriminate masquerade outings in our district. This situation poses a risk of escalating into a crisis, reminiscent of past events that caused significant harm to our community.
“History has shown us the dangers of allowing unchecked activities to spiral out of control.
“Our leaders cannot remain passive while the youth, who lack the ability to shape their futures, lead us back to a cycle of conflict and discord.
“Therefore, I urge our leaders and influential community groups to take immediate action to curtail unnecessary masquerade parades.
“I particularly appeal to our Traditional Rulers (Ta’arus) to limit the use of masquerades during celebrations, as the current circumstances may exceed the control of our youth.
“Let us remember that history will reflect our actions, and we must strive to foster peace and progress. We have all prayed for a harmonious community, and now is the time to actively preserve.”
Indiscriminate masquerade outings in Egbiraland may harm the community, if not nipped in the bud. It’s now up to traditional rulers and associations to act and stop this negative trend threatening the rich and the essence of culture and tradition of the people.
Ahmed publishes The Reporters.
ahmeddada008@gmail.com.
