Ojei Masquerade: Symbolism, Performance, and Spirituality in Ndokwa Culture

Ojei Masquerade: Symbolism, Performance, and Spirituality in Ndokwa Culture Ojei Masquerade is a cultural symbol in Ndokwa Area of Delta State that is being celebrated, specifically in the communities of Ashaka and Aboh, The Ojei masquerade is deeply grounded in mythology and Spirituality because it is connected to the river gods Ojei and Elishi. According to the oral traditions of Ndokwa people, these gods sprung out from the river during a communal clash in which the gods played key role in bringing back peace, blessings, and unity to the community. The Ojei masquerade has a vibrant costume that is spectacle to see, the costume is characterized with colorful fabrics, accessories, and a mask that is anthropomorphic.
The Ojei  mask features a double human face, decorated  with ébúbá úgó (eagle feathers), which represents a symbol of ancestral power and spirits.
Each performance by the Ojei masquerade represents a fusion of the supernatural and natural realms, thereby celebrating mythical ancestors in their human forms. The festival in which these masquerade performances takes place occurs annually between February and March.

The written record

While the Ojei  masquerade performs on land with bold and elegant dance steps, Elishi, on the other hand complements the season with performances in a canoe on the river, showing a sign of harmony between land and water spirits. Together, they both capture the mind of  audiences and rekindle communal values, artistic heritage and spirituality.

Historical context

S. Omoera, O., & Epochi-Olise, R. E. (2022a). Mediatization of NDOKWA masquerade performances: The Aesthetic Dynamics of an african indigenous carnival. Journal of Cultural and Creative Industries, 3(1), 1–22. https://doi.org/10.21134/jcci.v3i1.1763