The Edo people, also known as the ‘Binis,’ are an ethnic group in Edo state, Nigeria.
The Binis’ remarkably unwavering devotion to their customs stands in stark contrast to the other Nigerian cultures that have been impacted by modernization and globalization.The three things that set Edo people apart are as follows:
1. Edo people hold on to their traditional beliefs despite the influence of Christianity (their predominant religion)
This is obvious in the special raised areas kept out of appreciation for their precursors.On these altars, they offer a portion of their meals as a rite to their ancestors.It is considered blasphemy and disrespectful to the spirits of the departed.
2. Binis are artistic people
They are well-known for their exquisite art, particularly their ivory face masks and brass and bronze sculptures, some of which date back to the 14th century.They promote creativity and innovation while also interpreting their history through art.
Prior to the attack of the English powers, just the Oba reserved the option to possess and commission metal and bronze fine arts, and nobody could claim or create them without his authorization.
3. The Edo funeral rite is a 7-day event, 14 if the deceased is a noble or a monarch and separate rites are held each day
The embalming and washing of the body take place on the first day, Iwa Orhimwin.The children of the deceased eat with the mourners on the second day, and they sing burial songs until dawn.To please the ancestors, the oldest child offers a goat as a sacrifice on the third day (Izakhue).
The preparation for the fifth day of the rites typically takes place on the fourth day.The children of the deceased carry a red box around the town on Isoton, the fifth day, to symbolize their deceased parent’s prosperity.
On Okoubie, the sixth day, a person is dressed as the spirit of the deceased and must remain awake until the seventh day’s morning.
On the seventh and final day of the ceremony, Isuerhan Fua, the body is carried to the cemetery by a person dressed as the deceased.To conclude the entire ceremony, a goat is sacrificed.
The Edo people’s peculiarity stems from a number of factors.
