Ijele Masquerade

In many communities in the state of Anambra in South-Eastern Nigeria, celebrations, burial ceremonies and other special occasions during the dry season to evoke fertility and a bountiful harvest feature the performance of the Ijele masquerade.

It’s pertinent to note Umuatuolu Umueri was instrumental to the introduction of Ijele masqurades to Igbariamu, Nteje, and some other Villages outside Omabala areas.

[citation needed] In recognizing the roles played by Aguleri & Umuleri in the Origin of Ijele, the Old Anambra State Government unanimously selected their Ijele Cultural troupe, led by Chief Obiako Raphael Anizoba (Agunech'ibe)of Umuatuolu Umuleri and the Akunaeche Enyi Ijele cultural troupe from Igboezunu Aguleri to represent the State in Festival of Art & Culture known as FESTAC 1977 of which the groups won various Awards & accolades for excellence from the Federal Government in.

It is built around the intricacy of multicolor cloths, bamboo sticks and canes in line with a creative hand element.

It is not really a masquerade but it plays crucial role of leading the Ijele with its symbolic powerful fan called Akupe.

Spiritual / Social: Ijele performs at the burial ceremonies of great and powerful kings or special men and women in Igboland.

This affirmation comes in different ways, for example, dancing alongside the Ijele as it pays homage to a Chief or King, show ones total loyalty.

Though in some communities in Anambra State, it is restricted to young boys and girls singing and dancing to the tune of Akunechenyi music, which features very prominently during this session.

Though in some Communities in Anambra State, it is restricted to young boys and girls singing and dancing to the Akunechenyi music which features very prominently during the festivals.

Its worth to note that Ijele will never step out to perform unless Seven (7) Cannon gunshot are released to the air alongside the sound of its royal music.

Therefore, its would be nice to sum it up that Ijele is a Spiritual bond between a range of Communities in Anambra State of Nigeria which is harbinger of peace, amity, dialogue and a high sense of communality.