Masquerades

Masquerade (Mmanwu)

Masquerades have been with us for ages, and are symbolic of our heritage and culture. They are seen as physical representations of the ancestral spirits.

They make their appearances occasionally, especially during festive periods.

Accompanied by young men of certain age grades who wield long canes, and gongs which they strike to give melodious sounds, the masquerade dances to the bewilderment of onlookers, passerbys and motorists. 

Little children (including adults who have not been initiated), and women, are not allowed near a masquerade.

In some culture however, ladies of certain age (when they have attained menopause or age 60) are allowed initiation into the fellowship/fraternity of the masquerade. To do this, a cow (some culture allows goat), some tubers of yam, a local fowl and a certain amount is demanded from such lady. After the process of initiation, she is allowed to host a masquerade and accompany one at will.

There are different types of masquerades according to different occasions. Some masquerades are perfect dancers, feminine, and well decorated.

Some are ugly and frightening, and are percieved to have charms.

Some masquerades can climb trees.

Some make their appearances only at midnight.

Some crawl like a tortoise.

Some have legs like a pole.

Some can change their sizes at will.

Masquerades are part of our culture.

It is often advised that any young man who have come of age, should be initiated into the masquerade fellowship/fraternity.

Women who have attained age 60, can apply to be initiated into masquerade the cult.

Lastly, masquerades are spirits and should be respected.