Ekaba Festival: A Celebration Of Heritage, Unity And Renewal In Evboehighae

Rooted in the traditions of our ancestors, the Ekaba Festival is closely associated with the worship of Olokun, the revered deity of prosperity, abundance, and protection. It is a period set aside to give thanks for life, peace, and sustenance, while also seeking divine guidance and blessings for the year ahead.

By Chris Nehikhare

Each year, the people of Evboehighae join other Edo South communities in celebrating the Ekaba Festival, an age-long cultural tradition that speaks to our shared history, spirituality, and communal values. More than a festival, Ekaba is a sacred moment of remembrance, thanksgiving, and renewal.

On Tuesday, I was present in Evboehighae to witness firsthand the depth and beauty of this cultural observance. One of the highlights was the colourful procession of dancers who moved through the community to the residence of the Odionwere to pay homage.

The atmosphere was joyful and reverent at the same time, there was drumming, and as with tradition, no singing, and food and drinks flowed freely. It felt like a carnival — a vivid expression of culture, fellowship, and pride — even as everyone looked forward to the grand finale scheduled for that night at the Evboehighae Primary School, where a live band was procured to provide entertainment and round off the celebrations in style.

Rooted in the traditions of our ancestors, the Ekaba Festival is closely associated with the worship of Olokun, the revered deity of prosperity, abundance, and protection. It is a period set aside to give thanks for life, peace, and sustenance, while also seeking divine guidance and blessings for the year ahead.

The festival is marked by traditional rites, processions, drumming, and dance, all performed in accordance with customs handed down through generations. Elders play a central role, leading prayers and ceremonies that reaffirm the moral and spiritual foundations of the community. Youths, in turn, bring energy and colour, ensuring that the culture remains vibrant and relevant.

During the Ekaba festival, daily life in Evboehighae followed sacred customs. Residents traditionally did not go to their farms, observing the period with reverence. Still, as is often the case, some community members quietly checked their bushmeat traps or set new ones, occasionally bringing food home to ensure there was no shortage — a practical expression of communal care and survival woven into tradition.

For Evboehighae, Ekaba is also a powerful symbol of unity. Sons and daughters return home from far and near, families reconnect, disputes are healed, and bonds are strengthened. I personally enjoyed sharing in this communal spirit, including a memorable meal of ikpèn pounded yam and uwumwen orhè — a taste of home that carried the flavour of culture and belonging.

 

As Evboehighae celebrates this year’s Ekaba Festival, we are reminded that culture is not merely about rituals, but about identity, continuity, and collective responsibility. By preserving and celebrating Ekaba, we keep alive the values that define us and pass them on to generations yet unborn.

May this Ekaba Festival bring peace, prosperity and renewed strength to Evboehighae and all her people.

Iselogbè.