This is my mom's village, in Rivers state. A beautiful island I can use as an escape from the fast-paced, stress-filled, and populated lifestyle of Lagos.
I know the thought that comes to mind. Yes, the famous King Jaja, an example of the pride and heart of the people. He ended up sacrificing his freedom and ultimately his life for the safety of his people to the cunning British after giving them hell for a long while.
It's a serene, beautiful island with a view of river and waves that is breathtaking, and here's the best part, can take you to places from Calabar to Ghana and even the open ocean.
The culture is full of friendly and welcoming people who welcome strangers that come during festive periods for the Nwaotam aka masquerade display. My mom used to tell me how some people in those days come without plans for a place to stay but will end up having free accommodation and food, that was how free and secure it was. It may not be that free but it still is and very safe, the streets are filled with people at around 00:00 AM in the morning, people sleeping with doors open.
The fresh sea breeze, the view of aquatic life; seeing fishes jump out of the water as boats pass, is enough to appreciate nature and revitalize your mental health. Oh, and one useful tip you should know if you want to remain on the good side of the natives, each compound is a war canoe house. That is everyone related to that family by blood, with its name and symbol. My mother's family is the Mac Pepple war canoe house, with a Tiger as their symbol. When you enter the compound, you do not step on the elevated stone or door saddle at the threshold, it is a sign of disrespect to the entire household, it's also advisable you take off your headwear or cap. Once you do that, you should be right as rain.
There is a boat regatta display, with the different houses and compounds displaying and chanting while they paddle, showcasing the proud colors of their household. It is an activity that has the streets of this small prosperous town packed with strangers from different parts of Rivers, including foreigners. The main attraction is the Nwaotam which causes pandemonium year after year, as terrified and excited observers watch the masquerade dance on the rooftop while other smaller groups display and scare the observers, till the cannon goes off as the masquerade jumps to the floor and everyone takes off to avoid it wiping or beating someone. The crowd, tension in the air, sights, and sounds can not be done justice if you do not witness it for yourself.
Opobo is what made me see that though globalization has its advantages, there is beauty in still preserving culture and still staying connected with nature.
Opobo Nkoro, The Little Big Town
By
Oluseyi Vandy