Nigeria is home to diverse and culturally rich festivals, many of which have been preserved for generations. One such celebration is the Leboku Festival, an annual event observed by the Yakurr people of Cross River State.Â
This festival is a significant cultural heritage that marks the start of the new yam harvest season. It is an occasion filled with traditional dances, poetry recitals, cultural processions, and communal feasting.
For travellers, culture enthusiasts, and historians, the best place to experience the Leboku Festival is in Ugep, a town located within the Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State.Â
In this article, we will explore the festival’s significance, its key events, where to celebrate it, and travel tips for visitors.
The Significance of the Leboku Festival
The Leboku Festival is more than just a celebration; it is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Yakurr people. Historically, it serves as:
- A time for thanksgiving to the gods of the land and ancestors for a bountiful harvest.
- A rite of passage for young men and women, as some of the ceremonies involve community recognition.
- A cultural exhibition where visitors and younger generations learn about the rich traditions of the Yakurr.
According to local traditions, yams are considered sacred in Yakurr land. The festival is a spiritual and communal obligation that ensures prosperity and peace in the land.
Best Locations to Experience the Leboku Festival in Cross River State
The epicentre of the Leboku Festival is Ugep, a town widely recognised for hosting the grandest celebrations of the festival.Â
However, neighbouring towns also participate in Leboku, providing alternative locations for visitors who wish to experience the festival in a less crowded setting.
1. Ugep – The Heart of the Leboku Festival
Ugep is the largest town in Yakurr land and hosts the most elaborate Leboku Festival celebrations. It is known for its historical significance, vibrant culture, and unique role in preserving traditional African religious practices.
Key Highlights in Ugep:
- The most significant processions and performances take place here.
- Visitors can witness the grand displays of traditional regalia and costumes.
- The presence of high-ranking traditional rulers, including the Obol Lopon of Ugep, adds to the event’s prestige.
- Tourists can enjoy indigenous dishes, traditional music, and wrestling contests.
2. Idomi and Ekori – Alternative Festival Sites
For those who prefer a less congested atmosphere, Idomi and Ekori are excellent locations to experience the Leboku Festival in a more intimate and traditional setting.
While these areas may not have the grand scale of Ugep, they still maintain the authentic spirit of the celebration.
Key Events and Activities of the Leboku Festival
The Leboku Festival is a vibrant annual celebration in Ugep, Cross River State, Nigeria. It typically lasts from early to mid-August and comprises various events, each with unique cultural significance.
It is filled with colourful rituals, performances, and communal activities. Below are some of the key events that make this festival unique:
1. Mblemi (Harvest Parade)
This event marks the official beginning of the festival. Women, dressed in beautifully crafted traditional attire march through the streets carrying baskets of freshly harvested yams on their heads. This procession symbolises gratitude to the gods for a fruitful harvest season.
2. Janenboku (Women’s Festival Day)
The second day is Janenboku. On this day, the women of the community take centre stage. They receive gifts from family and loved ones as a token of appreciation. The women also participate in ritual dances, storytelling sessions, and ceremonial blessings.
3. Ledemboku (Men’s Festival Day)
On day three, the men’s festival, Ledemboku, follows. This festival involves a grand display of cultural dances and traditional rites. One of the most anticipated activities is the parade of young men who are recognised as future leaders of the community.
4. Leteboku (Poetry and Music Contests)
After a day of rest from the men’s festival comes the Leteboku.Â
A major festival highlight is the Leteboku competition, where young women from various villages perform poetry recitals. The contest showcases oral traditions and storytelling skills.
5. Yekpi and Yeponfawa (Traditional Cleansing Rituals)
Following two days of rest after the Leteboku, the Yekpi and Yeponfawa ceremony takes place, marking an essential phase of the Leboku Festival.Â
These events involve spiritual purification rituals, where traditional priests perform ceremonies to cleanse the community and invoke blessings of peace and prosperity.
6. Wrestling Competitions and Masquerade Performances
The wrestling contests are a major attraction for both young and old, symbolising strength and bravery. Masquerade performances featuring intricately designed costumes add to the event’s excitement.
The Leboku Festival concludes with the 7-day ceremonial dance of the Egbendum and Oka sessions. To mark the end of the celebrations, children are treated to a feast of yam porridge and palm wine.Â
Parents, relatives, and local farmers generously contribute the ingredients they gather from farm roads within the children’s neighbourhoods.
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Travel Tips for Visitors
For those planning to attend the Leboku Festival, here are some helpful travel tips:
1. Accommodation Options
Ugep has a limited number of hotels and guesthouses, so it is advisable to book accommodations in advance. Some options include:
- Flotilla Hotel
- Summer Guest House
- Nearby lodgings in Calabar for additional options
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2. Local Cuisine to Try
The festival is an excellent time to try traditional Yakurr dishes, including:
- Pounded yam and Afang soup
- Ekpang Nkukwo (cocoyam porridge wrapped in leaves)
- Bush meat delicacies
3. Cultural Etiquette
- It is important to dress modestly and respectfully.
- Seek permission before taking photographs, especially of elders and sacred sites.
- Engage politely with locals and ask questions to understand the significance of different rituals.
4. Transportation to Ugep
Ugep is accessible via major roads from Calabar, the capital of Cross River State. Visitors can choose from:
- Private car hires for convenience.
- Public transportation (buses and taxis).
5. Safety Precautions
- Stay in groups and avoid wandering alone at night.
- Carry cash in small denominations, as ATM access may be limited.
- Follow the guidance of local festival organisers for security measures.
Other Cultural Festivals in Cross River State
If you enjoy the Leboku Festival, consider attending other major cultural events in Cross River State:
- Calabar Carnival – The largest street festival in Africa.
- Ediba Bahumono Festival – Celebrating cultural unity through dance and music.
- Anong Bahumono Festival – Showcasing ancient traditions through folk storytelling and drumming.
These festivals offer additional opportunities to experience the diverse heritage of the state.
