Aneku Onogidi is an ancient and revered masquerade in Ebiraland, known for its immense spiritual power and historical significance. This sacred entity has been in existence for centuries, maintaining its mystical influence over time. As one of the most feared and respected masquerades, Aneku Onogidi plays a vital role in Ebira tradition, offering protection, healing, and blessings, especially to women struggling with infertility.
The History of Aneku Onogidi
Aneku Onogidi is considered a divine blessing to the people of Ebiraland. It is believed to possess supernatural abilities, including healing powers and the capacity to free individuals from spiritual bondage. One of its most significant roles is aiding women facing infertility. Those who conceive after seeking the masquerade’s blessings often name their children in its honor—Ogidi for boys and Onyi Onogidi for girls.
The name Ogidi originates from a location where an ancient spiritual artifact was discovered by a descendant of the Uhuami clan. This site, now in present-day Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, became the source of the powerful masquerade. The word Ogidi initially referred to a farm area where the sacred substance was found, while Ano-Ogidi meant “one from Ogidi,” later evolving into Onogidi. The term Aneku-Onogidi combines Aneku, meaning ancestor, and Onogidi, highlighting the masquerade’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage.
The Founding of Aneku Onogidi
Aneku Onogidi Ichapaniko of Kuroko traces its origins to the 18th century, established by Adayi-Ani’uhuami, a member of the Ekko lineage (Abara), a sub-clan of Uhuami. Using the spiritual substance he discovered, he crafted the outer mask of the masquerade, known as Enya’resu-Obanyi, embedding the artifact’s sacred essence into the being of Aneku Onogidi.
Adayi Ani’uhuami designated his younger brother, Adayi-Ani’iruku, as the stick bearer of the masquerade, while he remained its custodian, determining its sacrificial rites. This arrangement led to the following responsibilities:
- Uhuami Clan – Served as custodians of Aneku Onogidi (Oku’irapate)
- Aniku Clan – Acted as the stick bearers (Okuochi-ruvo)
Over time, these two clans coexisted, playing crucial roles in sustaining the spiritual legacy of Aneku Onogidi.
Migration and Settlement in Kuroko
During early migration, the Adavi sub-clan had five sons: Upopuvete (Apasi), Uka, Uhuami, Aniku (Idu), and Adeika. Uhuami, like his siblings, left Adavi-Eba to settle in the hilly areas now known as Kuroko (formerly Iruku Uroko, meaning “forest of Iroko trees”). His younger brother Aniku followed, settling in the lower valley, earning the name Ani Iruku (People of the Forest), later evolving into Aniku.
Aneku Onogidi in Ebira Festivals
Aneku Onogidi holds a prominent place in Ebira cultural festivals, particularly the Eche’ane Festival. During this event, the masquerade appears, accompanied by traditional chants and songs. One of the famous chants associated with it is:
“Onogidi enevanamawu Ke! Weva-Anee’se! Wava-Anowee! Onogidi enevanamawu Ke!”
This chant signifies the spiritual reverence held for the masquerade by the people of Anee’se and Anowee, two communities historically tied to its origins.
The Spiritual Power of Aneku Onogidi
Aneku Onogidi carries a mystical staff known as Arubebe, a heavy, spiritually charged stick thrown during performances. The masquerade’s supernatural strength is further exemplified by its ability to detect and destroy cursed objects, such as enchanted local pots, upon entering a household.
Famous Stick Bearers of Aneku Onogidi
Since its emergence, various individuals have served as Okuochi-ruvo (stick bearers) of Aneku Onogidi. One of the most notable was Ijamboro, originally named Okuku. During the reign of Attah Ibrahim Onoruioza, British colonial officials recruited strong warriors to serve as security for the newly appointed ruler. When they encountered Okuku, his sheer size and strength impressed a British officer, who exclaimed “John Bull”, likening him to a powerful figure. Over time, this name morphed into “Ijamboro”, the title by which he became known in Ebiraland.
Praise Names of Aneku Onogidi
Aneku Onogidi is revered by many titles, reflecting its might and spiritual significance. Some of these include:
- Ichapaniko
- Muwo-Muwo Anee’se
- Odopochi-Okaha (signifying supreme spiritual power over other deities)
- Ikokere-Omuha
- Ori’ahue-Oniri’asise
- Oshe’eyirataba
- Odo-Odumi Evu
- Atuporoja
- Osho-Okavu Vovo
- Opakiovo
- Onyai-Vooo
The Sacredness of the Masquerade
Aneku Onogidi is regarded as a holistic deity that requires no external charms or enhancements. The masquerade’s costume and mask are sacred objects that must not be touched by ordinary people. In traditional beliefs, masquerades serve multiple purposes, including:
- Entertainment – Displaying agility, music, and dance
- Moral Enforcement – Commending virtuous individuals and chastising wrongdoers
- Spiritual Communication – Delivering messages of hope, warnings, and divine prophecies
- Rituals and Ceremonies – Participating in ancestral and religious rites
Conclusion
Aneku Onogidi is more than just a masquerade; it embodies the deep spiritual heritage of the Ebira people. From its origins in Ogidi to its sacred role in Kuroko, this powerful entity continues to shape and influence Ebira culture. Despite modern influences, its legacy of protection, blessings, and cultural significance remains unshaken. For the Ebira people, Aneku Onogidi is not just history—it is a living testament to their spiritual identity and ancestral pride.
© Saka Abdulbaki, 2020.
