Owambe

Owambe

Date	Varies
Location	Nigeria, especially in Yorubaland
Type	Social event
Budget	Varies
Participants	Yoruba people and other Nigerians
Activity	Music, dance, food, fashion, spraying of money
Attendance	Varies
Genre	Celebration

Owambe, also spelt as Owanbe, is a Yoruba term for extravagant parties in Nigeria, especially among the Yoruba people. The term "Owambe" is derived from the Yoruba expression "owan be," meaning the presence of a celebration or party.[1] Owambe parties mark various occasions, including weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, funerals, housewarmings, graduations, and chieftaincy titles.[2] They are known for their opulence, style, and abundance of food, music, dance, and money.

History

Owambe parties have historical roots dating back to the pre-colonial era in Yoruba culture.[3] Yoruba kingdoms, such as Oyo, Ife, Ijebu, and Egba, were known for their cultural sophistication and tradition of celebrating significant events and milestones. For instance, the Oyo Empire held the annual Odun Oba, or King's Festival,[4] and Ife Kingdom celebrated the Odun Olojo, or Day of Creation.[5] During the colonial period, the Yoruba culture adapted to various influences from the British Empire, leading to the emergence of Owambe parties as a form of social expression and resistance.[6] In the post-colonial era, Owambe parties evolved and expanded in scope, becoming more popular among different Nigerian ethnic groups and influenced by global trends and technologies.[7]

Features

Owambe parties are characterized by several distinctive features, including music, dance, food, fashion, and the practice of spraying money:

Music and dance

Music and dance are essential components of Owambe parties, providing entertainment for guests.[8] A variety of musical genres are played, ranging from traditional to modern, with diverse dance styles.[2] Some popular musicians who perform at Owambe parties include King Sunny Adé, Ebenezer Obey, and others. Guests often engage in dance competitions and show their skills.[2]

Food

Food is an important aspect of Owambe parties, symbolizing hospitality and abundance. The cuisine includes local and continental dishes, prepared by professional caterers or family members to satisfy guests' appetites. Various drinks complement the food.[1]

Fashion

Fashion plays a significant role in Owambe parties, with guests often wearing Aso ebi to indicate belonging to a particular group or family.[9] This practice involves a specific fabric and colour chosen by the hosts. Guests showcase their style and personality through their clothing and accessories.[2]

Spraying of money

Spraying money is a distinctive feature of Owambe parties, representing appreciation and support for the hosts and performers. Money is thrown or sprayed in various forms and denominations, and its meaning ranges from gratitude to wealth display.[1] However, the practice has also faced criticism due to concerns about resource use and potential violations of currency-related regulations.[1]

Types

Owambe parties are classified based on the occasion, with common types including weddings, birthdays, and funerals, among others.[2][1] Each type offers an opportunity for celebration, with weddings being especially popular, involving various ceremonies and parties.[3] Funerals, while generally solemn, can also have festive aspects depending on the circumstances.[1][10]

References

1. "Owambe: All you need to know about this loud Yoruba party". Skabash!. 19 November 2022. Retrieved 21 October 2023.
2. "Do Yorubas Really Throw The Best 'Owambe' Parties? -". The Herald. 14 October 2023. Retrieved 21 October 2023.
3. Uwajeh, Alex. ""Owanbe" or "Owambe" Party in Nigeria Complete Guide". 247Broadstreet.com. Retrieved 21 October 2023.
4. Tugbobo, Babatunde (29 July 2022). "Osemawe, subjects celebrate 'Odun Oba'". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 21 October 2023.
5. Bamigbola, Bola (25 September 2022). "Ooni, Aregbesola, Alabi promote culture at Olojo festival". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 21 October 2023.
6. Kunnuji, Joseph (2020). A Chronicle of Cultural Transformation: Ethnography of Badagry Ogu Musical Practices (PDF) (Thesis). University of Cape Town.
7. Oladotun, Shola-Adido (28 January 2023). "Eight people you'll meet at 'Owambe'". Premium Times Nigeria. Retrieved 21 October 2023.
8. Olukoju, Ayodeji (1 January 2018). "Which Lagos, Whose (Hi)story?". Lagos Notes and Records. Retrieved 21 October 2023.
9. Orimolade, Adefolake Odunayo (2014). Aso Ebi: Impact of the Social Uniform in Nigerian Caucuses, Yoruba Culture and Contemporary Trends (PDF) (Thesis). p. 17.
10. "Owambe Party in Nigeria: Foods, Vibes, Dressing and Cruise". Insight.ng. 17 October 2021. Retrieved 21 October 2023.