The Complexion of Abu-Ozu (Dirges) among the Oshimili People of Delta State, Nigeria

Author

Maureen Ada Uche

a Ph.D., University of Delta (Agbor, Nigeria).

Charles Onomudo Aluede; FANIM

a Ph.D., a professor at Ambrose Alli University (Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria).

ORCID ID:  https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2701-5419

Oghenemudiakevwe Igbi

PhD,  the Department of Theatre and Film Studies, University of Africa (Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State, Nigeria).

Enoh Justina Okafor

a Ph.D., University of Delta (Agbor, Nigeria).

ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-3025-2180

The Complexion of Abu-Ozu (Dirges) among the Oshimili People of Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

The funeral songs of the Oshimili communities living in Delta State in Nigeria and speaking the Igbo language are researched in the article. Traditional music is a means of communication for them, a part of rituals of worship, healing, accompanies entertainment and presents them outside the community. It transmits beliefs, customs and strengthens social ties, because the representatives of this people share their cultural heritage. It is the context that has caused the necessity of the submitted study, investigating the musical skills of people embodied in their funeral songs. Ritual laments, as well as proverbs and chants in traditional funeral ceremonies, are analyzed. At the same time, some modern elements reflected in the songs and performing practices of funeral rites among the Oshimili communities are pointed out. The results of the study indicate that Abu-Ozu is an ancient musical tradition that has been little studied by scholars. This is a musical accompaniment to a funeral, including also recitatives, proverbs, aphorisms, and laconic folk tales those are woven organically into the songs. These are peculiar messages for the dead and the living to draw attention to the reality of death and help cope with grief.

It is one of the folklore genres in which the cast is limited, the pieces are not rehearsed; but it is performed by those who have a direct relationship to the family of the deceased: these may be Okwulagwe, Umuada or Ikpoho-Ogbeof the Ogbe quarter. Since Abu-Ozu performing is regulated and controlled, the music associated with it is quite uncommon. It is believed that if it is not researched in time, there is a risk of losing it to modernity, as it is currently happening with other traditions.

Keywords

Abu-Ozu, Oshimili, dirges, cultural practices.

References

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