In this article, platinumtimes.ng dives into the cutures, traditions, history and beliefs of the Idoma people of Benue State, Nigeria.
The Idoma people are found in the Lower Western part of Benue State. Their hospitable and peace loving and humble attitude is second to none.
They have a colorful blend of black and red stripes in their attires which signifies their strength and royalty.
They constitute about 3.5 Million of the total population of Nigeria and the second largest ethnic group in Benue State occupying about nine local government areas including Ado, Agatu, Apa, Obi, Ohimini, Ogbadibo, Oju, Okpokwu and Otukpo.
They are also known to be brave warriors and hunters scattered all over Taraba State, Cross Rivers State, Enugu State, Kogi State and Nasarawa State in Nigeria.
Language
The Idoma language is classified in the Akweya subgroup of the Idomoid languages of the Volta–Niger family, which include Igede, Alago, Agatu, Etulo, Ete, Akweya (Akpa) and Yala. These languages are spoken by natives of Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Enugu, and Northern Cross River states.
Origin
Oral history suggests that the Idoma people had existed before the creation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 1960. It is believed that the Idoma people originates from a common ancestry, he is recognized as the father of the Idoma(Iduh).
Traditional history holds that Iduh the father of the Idoma had several children who established different clans and areas of the present day Idoma land.
Historians believe that the Idoma people migrated into the area from the north along with the forbearers of Yoruba, Bini, and Igbo peoples sometime before that.
Location
The Idoma People are most found in ithe lower western areas of Benue State, Nigeria, and kindred groups can be found in Cross Rivers State, Enugu State, Kogi State and Nasarawa State in Nigeria.
It is situated inland, south of river Benue and 72 kilometres east of its confluence with River Niger.
Occupation
The Traditional occupation of the Idoma people is farming.
Their staple crops are yams and taro, known locally as cocoa yams. Other arable crops are maize, manioc, peppers, peanuts, tomatoes, squash, and sweet potatoes. Goats, sheep, chickens and dogs are kept by nearly everyone. Hunting and fishing is also an important occupation in Idoma land.
Beliefs
The Idoma people belief in the spirit of their ancestors, Alekwu spirit for protection of it’s people and preventing dangers and mishaps.
However due to westernization, christinanity, Islam and others religions are practiced in Idoma land but a majority of the people of Idoma still have strong beliefs on the Alekwu ancestral spirit as it is seen as a bridge between the living and the dead.
Festivals and Celebration
The “Aje Alekwu” is an annual festival held by Idoma people to placate their ancestors and make sacrifices to worship the deity.
During this festival, the traditional attire of the he Idoma people are worn. These attires are composed of two outstanding colors, red and black stripes representing royalty and strength of the Idoma people.
The dance of the Idoma tribe is always a sight to behold during this festival, the dance is called the Ogirinya dance. It is a highly energetic dance that involves jumping on the toes in short period of time at regular intervals.
Their traditional food is also served during these occasion, these dishes includes; Okoho soup, made from the Okoho plant, bush meat, and many other ingredients. Due to their love for food, an annual food festival is usually done to honour women in Benue state.
Marriage
Their marriage rituals and customs are similar to those of the Igbo and other southeastern cultures, but there are certain aspects that distinguish their traditions.
In some cultures in Idoma land, the bride is presented with a rooster and some money by the groom after paying the bride price. If the bride accepts it shows acceptance, if she refuses, it shows disapproval.
Political Structure
The traditional ruler of the Idoma people is called Och’Idoma, he presides over the Idoma Area Traditional Council and his palace is situated at Otukpo, Benue State.
The Idoma people live closely knitted together in villages or father apart.
Political ties exist solely on the community level with a headman, or chief, who inherits his position along patrilineal lines. Royal succession among the Idoma often alternates between two patrilineal lines.
Idoma Personalities
Some outstanding personalities from Idoma include; 2baba Innocent Idibia (musician), David Mark (former Nigerian Senate President), Terry G (Nigerian musician), Susan Peters (Nollywood actress), and Daniel Amokachi (former Super Eagle player).
