Ocho festival of Gullah Igala kingdom USA

Ocho festival of Gullah Igala kingdom USA

Igala people were/are known with farming, hunting and fishing as their main occupations. But these are not just done, as they are accompanied with prayers and thanksgiving to the god of the earth (Ane/Ani) and God almighty. Before the farming season, the Attah Igala will pray to the earth god for bountiful harvest, fruitful hunting and fishing, safety on the farm, and peace in the land.

This can be an event or a usual prayer. As an event, it is called Ocho festival. In addition to Idah, many Igala towns in different states like Anambra, Delta, Edo, Rivers, etc celebrate this pre-farming festival under various names such as Efane, Ocho, Ukwulo, etc.

Among the indigenous Igala people of USA headed by HRH Onu Edibo Idih Abba Nizar , it is called Ocho festival, and it is celebrated within April to June. This year, the Ocho festival of Igala Kingdom USA will be taken place on June 7, which is just next month, and it will be from 6 pm Nigerian time which is their own 12 o’clock in the USA. There are many things that will be done at the event apart from the traditional elements.

Dance groups, lectures, reconnection of Igala people etc will be part of the event. If you are in USA, attend the event in Charleston SC.

If you are not, join us here in Facebook that day. It is the 5th Ocho festival already in the USA, and I’m grateful for the revitalisation/exporting of Igala culture from Idah, Kogi State to USA. God bless Igala people worldwide.

Photo: Omaonyete Igala kingdom USA