At the 2019 EziOkpala-Igwe cultural festival of Amawbia,in Awka south local government of Anambra state, the APGA national chairman Chief Victor Oye (Ozonkpu),a high ranking titled chief in the community, performed traditional rites on Ijele.
Ijele is the biggest masquerade in Igbo land, originated from Anambra state. It is considered a symbol of power, prestige and dignity. Traditionally, Igbo people shower masquerades with money to show love, but it's very rare to see anyone enter a masquerade like the giant Ijele.
According to tradition, Masquerades are believed to be spirits not human. Such folklore prohibited women from Masquerades.
In this video, did Victor Oye violate the tradition? The answer is no. He is a high profile titled chief, traditionally he can dance with the gods. Only such class of traditional men can enter the Ijele masquerade.
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