Since Nigeria’s Independence in 1960, many things have changed — from black-and-white TV to TikTok, from telegrams to WhatsApp, from highlife to Afrobeats. But if you look closely, you’ll realize one thing: Edo people haven’t really changed much on Independence Day.

Here are 5 things that have remained the same from 1960 to 2025:

1. Food Still Comes First 🍲

Back in 1960, when Nigerians first shouted “freedom,” Edo families marked it with big pots of pepper soup, owo soup, starch, banga, and goat meat. Fast-forward to 2025? Same thing!
While Lagos people are eating small chops and Abuja people are doing “continental buffet,” Edo folks still believe that no Independence Day is complete without a table that can break under food weight.

2. Politics Still Enter the Conversation 🗣️

Whether it’s 1960, 1980, 2000, or 2025 — one thing Edo people love on October 1st is debating politics. Back then, it was about independence leaders. Now, it’s about governors, senators, and who deserves the next ticket. Expect the same questions every year:

• “This one wey dem promise 24-hour light, where e dey?”

• “Our roads don tar finish?”

• “Oba ghato kpere, who really dey rule Edo?”

3. Dressing Loud and Proud 👑

In 1960, Edo people wore their best wrappers, beads, and native attires to mark Independence. In 2025, nothing has changed. The beads are bigger, the lace is shinier, and the selfies are clearer. But the idea is the same: Edo people must look like royalty, because in truth — they are.

4. Masquerades Still Scare Children 👻

Ask your parents and they’ll tell you: masquerades have been part of Edo Independence celebrations since the 60s. Children cried then, children are still crying now. Even Gen Z kids with iPads still run when egungun appears. Some things never change.

5. Humor Still Colors the Day 😂

In 1960, Edo people joked about colonial masters leaving. In 1980, they joked about military rule. In 2000, they joked about NEPA. In 2025, they’re joking about fuel prices, network wahala, and promises politicians didn’t keep. Independence Day has always been about laughter — because humor is how Edo survives.

Conclusion

So much has changed in Nigeria since independence, but Edo people remain consistent: food, politics, culture, masquerades, and humor. From 1960 to 2025, Independence Day in Edo has always been a celebration of survival, tradition, and joy.

And if there’s one thing we know for sure: Edo no dey carry last.

Happy Independence Day! 🎉