Spirit, power of Nkpoporo masquerade

• Published date: 11 January 2023
• Publication title: Nigeria - The Nation

By Ekwunazor Patience Omoadoni

Nkpoporo is one of the masquerades found among the Efik communities of Cross River State.

They are regarded as the spirit of ancestors. Traditionally, the Efik believe that masquerades form a link between the living and the dead. Nkpoporo masquerade belongs to a secret cult, the masquerade wears a big costume with human skull on the head.

Before Nkpoporo masquerade can be showcased, the members will sleep in a burial ground for seven days and are expected not to eat any food prepared by a woman, and spirits are invoked during the preparation, for them to gain powers.

When there is a problem with any Nkpoporo, they will move to that community in order to settle the dispute and they carry dangerous weapons like machetes, axe etc. After the display, the dispute will be settled and the masquerade and members will be entertained. But, if the community refuses settlement, it will result to fight and they will kill themselves.

The masquerade dance which accompanies the...