Inside Iwoye-Ketu Town, Where the uses of an Umbrella is Forbidden; Reasons
Did you know that in Iwoye-Ketu, using an umbrella is forbidden?
Iwoye-Ketu is a community located between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, approximately 98 kilometers from Abeokuta in Ogun State, sharing its northern border with Oyo State.
Globally, people commonly use umbrellas to shield themselves from rain or the sun. However, in Iwoye-Ketu, Ogun State, Nigeria, villagers prefer to endure the rain rather than use an umbrella.
Historical Context
This unique tradition dates back to the 1700s when the first settlers arrived in Iwoye-Ketu. Despite the introduction of Christianity and Islam, the community has continued to uphold this custom.
Joel Aremu, the local monarch, explained to FCG that “in those days, our forefathers hunted elephants in the forests. Elephants, with their large ears resembling umbrellas, felt threatened by umbrellas and often attacked hunters carrying them.”
While the younger generation in Iwoye-Ketu may not fully agree with this tradition, they still adhere to it.
Community and Tradition
Iwoye-Ketu has a population of about 75,000, primarily composed of farmers and hunters, with ancestral roots tracing back to Ile-Ife, Osun State.
One of the first settlers, Olumu from Ile-Ife, brought with him three significant items: a crown, a staff known as Opa Ogbo, and a deity called Orisa Oluwa. It is the Orisa Oluwa deity that prohibits the use of umbrellas and the rearing of pigs, considered unclean animals.
Although many residents own umbrellas, they only use them outside the community. Within Iwoye-Ketu, people rely on hoods, raincoats, traditional woven hats, and plastic coverings to protect themselves from the rain.
