Every October 1st, Nigerians all over the country wear green and white, wave flags, and post “Happy Independence Day” on social media. But if you’ve ever celebrated Independence Day in Edo State, you’ll know that Edo people have their own unique way of doing it — a mix of culture, comedy, politics, and plenty food.
Here are 10 ways Edo people celebrate Independence Day differently from the rest of Nigeria:
1. Independence Day Is Another Reason to Showcase the Oba
While most states focus on parades in stadiums, Edo people never forget that the heart of their culture is the Benin Kingdom. The chants of “Oba ghato kpere, Ise!” echo louder than the national anthem in some celebrations.
2. Cultural Dance Over March Past
In Abuja or Lagos, you’ll see uniformed school children sweating under the sun doing “left, right.” In Edo, you’re more likely to see Edo cultural troupes dancing, clapping, and displaying traditional moves that remind everyone that culture is king.
3. Egungun Masquerades Steal the Show
Other states might showcase military parades, but in Edo, you can expect to see masquerades (egungun) storming the streets, scaring children and even some grown-ups who pretend not to be afraid. It’s entertainment, culture, and cardio in one.
4. Food Is a Whole Ceremony
In some states, Independence Day food is rice and stew. In Edo? Expect Owo soup, starch and banga, pepper soup, goat meat, and palmwine. If you don’t eat until you can’t stand, it’s not an Edo Independence celebration.
5. Street Debates on Politics
Edo people are some of the most politically aware Nigerians. Independence Day here means you’ll find groups arguing in beer parlors about “which governor is better” and “who deserves the next ticket.” Sometimes the debates get hotter than the pepper soup.
6. Rema and Edo Stars Take Over the Playlist
While Lagos might focus on Wizkid or Davido, in Edo you’ll hear Rema, Shallipopi, and other Edo-born stars blasting from loudspeakers. Independence Day is another chance to hail “Edo no dey carry last.”
7. Edo Diaspora Still Reps
Even in London, New York, or Toronto, Edo sons and daughters rock their beads, play Benin songs, and sprinkle “Oba ghato kpere” into their Independence Day gatherings. You can take Edo people out of Benin, but you can’t take Benin out of them.
8. Traditional Beads Over Green-White-Green
While the national colors are green and white, Edo people still love rocking their red coral beads and traditional outfits on Independence Day. The beads speak louder than flags.
9. Palmwine Over Champagne
In Lagos, you might see champagne bottles pop on October 1st. In Edo, the real VIP drink is fresh palmwine, straight from the source. If you know, you know.
10. Humor Is Everywhere
From memes about NEPA taking light during the national broadcast to jokes about promises politicians won’t keep, Edo people use humor to turn Independence Day into a comedy show. After all, laughter is part of survival.
Conclusion
Independence Day in Edo is more than just a holiday — it’s a cultural carnival, a political seminar, a food festival, and a family reunion rolled into one. So if you want to experience Nigeria’s Independence with tradition, pride, and plenty laughter, Benin City is the place to be.
Edo no dey carry last. Happy Independence Day! 🎉
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