Young Virgins Initiated Into Womanhood In Ogu Town.
The people of Ogu kingdom in Ogu/Bolo LGA of Rivers State came together to celebrate Iria, an ancient ceremony that marks the transition of girls into womanhood. This important rite of passage has been observed for centuries, dating back to the 17th century among the Okirika Ijaw people.
To mark this special occasion, young virgins gathered at the designated location to undergo the Iria ceremony. Before entering the secluded ‘fattening room,’ where they would receive training and guidance on womanhood, their virginity was verified by a group of respected women from the community.
During their time in the fattening room, the girls were immersed in a comprehensive training program that covered various aspects of womanhood, including domestic responsibilities, marital expectations, and cultural values. This intensive preparation aimed to equip the girls with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate adulthood and become exemplary members of society.
Upon successfully completing the Iria ceremony, the girls were presented with certificates by the Ogu Council of Chiefs, officially recognizing their transition into womanhood and readiness for marriage. These certificates are proof of their commitment to upholding the traditions and values of the Ogu kingdom.
The Iria ceremony is not merely a celebration of physical maturation; it is a cultural expression that reaffirms the importance of female empowerment and the transmission of traditional knowledge from one generation to the next. It is a reminder of the enduring strength and resilience of the Okirika Ijaw people, who continue to uphold their rich heritage amidst the ever-changing world.
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Young Virgins Initiated Into Womanhood In Ogu Town, (OKRIKA) Rivers State.
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