Date of Event: Dec 25 2010, Port Harcourt

The Oki Festival is a ceremonial and social dance display celebrated by the Kalabari people of Rivers state. The dancers portray a family of fish, the head of the family being the Oki, a sea creature resembling a sword shark. The fish families take turns to display their fish-like dance, with each masquerade having its own instantly recognisable - to the Kalabari people at least - tune. Beside the Oki, families tend to include a dolphin, a white shark, crocodiles and a turtle. The turtle, a firm favourite with the crowds, is regarded as the clown. A highlight of the festival is the arrival of the fisherman, with his hooks, nets and spear. His attempts to catch the fish lead to some of the most nimble dance moves of the day, with the fish proving far too slippery for their foe. The day ends with the crocodiles bowing to make a path for the Oki to return to the sea. The festivities, held during Christmas, take place in town centres throughout River state. Oki is regarded as a social event, so there are no rituals or sacrifices.

Posted on: Thursday, 15 July, 2010  16:42
Updated On: Friday, 30 July, 2010  04:27
Expires On: Friday, 15 July, 2011  16:42
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