At Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters, we haven’t seen any cogent reason to think the contrary, that culture has potential in uniting, educating, and inspiring. It is on that premise that, we commend the Gbaramatu Kingdom for throwing open the doors of its treasured Amaseikumo Festival to the media and the wider world.
Speaking to journalists during the opening day of the festival, High Chief (Hon.) McDonald Igbadiwei, the respected spokesman for traditional matters, made a profound clarification: there is no human sacrifice involved in Amaseikumo. Rather, it is a sacred yet joyful celebration of the Ijaw people’s deep spiritual and cultural roots – a carnival of processions, ancient masquerades, and electrifying dance steps that connect generations through rhythm and tradition.
For too long, traditional African festivals have been misrepresented or misunderstood. Superstitions and myths have clouded the rich narratives that lie within these cultural ceremonies. But in Gbaramatu, we witnessed a bold step towards transparency and cultural education. The kingdom has invited the press not merely as observers but as storytellers – tasked with preserving, projecting, and protecting Ijaw heritage through truthful reportage.
Yet, with openness comes responsibility. As Chief Igbadiwei rightly noted, the sacred still commands respect. Women are only restricted from entering the temple during their natural monthly flow – a tradition upheld across many cultures for spiritual reasons. Likewise, male visitors who have had sexual intimacy the night before must undergo purification before stepping into the temple with equipment. These are not restrictions of exclusion, but symbols of reverence rooted in age-old spiritual discipline.
In celebrating Amaseikumor, we must also celebrate the power of responsible media. Let this be a call to fellow journalists and cultural observers: cover our heritage with care, context, and cultural sensitivity. Let the world see the Ijaw people not through the lens of fear or suspicion, but with the pride, colour, and dignity that this festival so richly deserves.
The Amaseikumor Festival is not a secret affair. It is a sacred celebration – and the world is invited to witness its glory.
