Egu Ukele: Ukwuani Traditional War Music 

 

 

 

Egu Ukele dance tradition and music of ndi Ukwuani, maintains deep historical and cultural significance

Egu Ukele played an important role in the resilience of Ndi Ogume against external factors, particularly the old Benin kingdom’s expansion of Oba Ewuare, a handful of Ogume lived in Idu kingdom (old Benin kingdom, )this was in the course of a migration wave.

After the invasion of Idu, by forces from Ile Ife, the newly established Oba and his predecessors tried to subjugate the Ukwuani people living in Idu but they resisted untill they were forced to finish the migration they had started which brought them to present day Ogume.

Ogume is made up of Ogbe-Ogume quarters, Ogbagu quarters, Ogbe-Ole quarters , Igbe quarters , Umu-Chime quarters, Obodo-Ugwua quarters, and Utue quarters. These quarters jointly formed a strong army force that protected the community when Oba Ewuare of old Benin kingdom Invaded and try to subjugate them after fleeing the old Idu kingdom. 

Egu Ukele is used to invoke ancestors and warriors of the Ogume community to strengthen their resolve in protecting the town, and securing their freedom.

Egu Ukele today serves as the main musical medium of Ukwuani people during the Ikenge festival.

 

Reference: Chukwuka Osanebi

The Cultural Significance of Ukele Music in Ikenge Festival of the Ogume People of Delta State, Nigeria

 

 

Leave a Comment

This Pop-up Is Included in the Theme
Best Choice for Creatives
Purchase Now