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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Ekpe festival as religious ritual and dance drama
Author:Amankulor, Jas N.ISNI
Year:1972
Periodical:Ikenga: Journal of African Studies
Volume:1
Issue:2
Pages:37-47
Language:English
Geographic term:Nigeria
Subjects:Igbo
traditional festivals
Abstract:The Ekpe festival is very popular among the Ngwa of Igboland. It is also widely celebrated in neighbouring areas such as the old Umuahia and Owerri Provinces. As a festival Ekpe is celebrated every year because it is an important cultural event in the life of the people being the culminations of their Year Rites. Its roots are deep in traditional religion and ritual. It is only a tragic event such as the death of a village hero, or a permission from the gods that can stop the staging of Ekpe. Ekpe (tone-marked - -, low-low) should not be confused with Ekpe (tone-marked) - -, high-low). The latter is a secret society which is exclusive to men, and which is also called Okonko in many parts of Igboland. This Society is equally popular among the Efik and Annang of Nigeria. But Ekpe, the former, enjoys communal patronage and participation with women and children forming part of its choric force. Fig., notes.
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