Culture

Rivers Community Celebrates Annual Iria Festival, Initiating Young Virgins into Womanhood

Published

1 year ago

December 6, 2023

In the Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, the Ogu kingdom’s annual Iria festival has once again captured widespread attention, as young virgins are initiated into womanhood. The Iria ceremony, an ancient festival of the Okrika people, takes place in various towns, particularly during the months of December and January.

Dating back to the 16th century, the Iria Festival has become a source of excitement for both locals and outsiders, drawing anticipation in the last three to four months of every year. The festival is known for featuring maidens who, as part of the initiation process, showcase their breasts.

Beyond its role as a cultural event, the Iria Festival is viewed as a yearly competition where families in Okrika use the opportunity to highlight chastity. Parents present their virgin daughters for initiation into womanhood, marking the beginning of the fattening room phase. In this phase, the young women are nourished with body-enriching meals, including pounded yam mixed with pounded plantain and fresh fish.

Photos from this year’s Iria Festival have gone viral on social media, portraying the cultural richness and traditions of the Okrika people in Rivers State.

Culture

New Alaafin to Begin 21-Day Traditional Rites

Published

2 weeks ago

January 13, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Cynthia Abah

Oba Abimbola Owoade, the newly appointed Alaafin of Oyo, will commence a 21-day traditional ceremony marking his ascension to the throne.

Governor Seyi Makinde officially presented him with the staff of office on Monday, following his announcement as the new monarch on Friday.
Oba Owoade succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who passed away three years ago. The ceremony was attended by the Oyomesi (kingmakers), government officials, and other dignitaries.
After the event, a source confirmed that the new Alaafin has traveled to Oyo town to begin his traditional rites, which are essential for his coronation.

Culture

Substantive Alaafin Emerges

Published

2 weeks ago

January 13, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Adenike Lawal

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially installed Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, presenting him with the staff and certificate of office.

The ceremony, held on Monday at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, was attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, government officials, and Oyo residents.

Governor Makinde hailed Oba Owoade as a custodian of Oyo’s rich cultural heritage, expressing confidence in his ability to lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to unity.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Owoade pledged to prioritize the kingdom’s development and the welfare of its people.

He succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who ruled for 50 years.

Culture

Makinde Ends Long Wait, Approves New Alaafin of Oyo

Published

2 weeks ago

January 10, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Our Correspondent

Governor Seyi Makinde has officially approved Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, following a series of consultations and divinations by the Oyomesi.

In a statement signed by Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, it was revealed that this decision puts to rest the ongoing socio-legal disputes after the passing of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on April 22, 2022.

Hon. Ademola Ojo, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, called on Oyo State citizens to unite in celebrating the new monarch and support his reign, which is hoped to usher in peace, prosperity, and unity for the Oyo Kingdom.