The tradition & historical record
2 min read · 2 sourcesOro Festival (Yoruba: Orò) is an event celebrated by various towns and settlements of Yoruba origin. It is an annual traditional festival that is of patriarchal nature, as it is only celebrated by male descendants who are paternal natives to the specific locations where the particular event is taking place. It venerates the Orisha Orò, the Yoruba deity of Bullroarers and communal justice. During the festival, females and non-natives stay indoors as oral history has it that Orò must not be seen by women and non-participating people. The ceremonies surrounding the celebration of Orò differ from town to town, and one is often called after the death of a monarch. When the Oba or other important official dies, a special atonement and period of mourning are held. Orò is usually concealed except during the festivity. Orò makes an entrance by making high-pitched swishing sounds. This whirring sound is said to be made by the wife called Majowu. The Orò festival has been argued to be anti-woman by some because of the requirement for women to stay indoors during the festival. Women must not come outside for the full day. It is believed that any woman who comes out and encounters Oro will suffer dire consequences which includes death. This is supported by the Yoruba saying: 1
Awo Egúngún l'obìnrin le ṣe, awo Gẹ̀lẹ̀dẹ́ l’obìnrin le mọ̀. Bí obìnrin bá fi ojú kan Orò, Orò á gbé e lọ. Meaning: 1
Women can experience Egungun, a woman can participate in Gelede. 1
Oro Festival in Ikorodu
The festival is a celebration of the town's rich cultural heritage and is typically held in the month of August. During the festival, participants dress in colorful traditional attire and perform various cultural dances and rituals, including the Oro Magbo dance, which is a sacred dance performed by the Oro cult. The festival also features traditional music, food, and crafts, and is an important event for the people of Ikorodu to come together and celebrate their identity. The festival is usually held at the Ikorodu Town Hall and is attended by dignitaries from across the state.