Women in Imolè Festival in Àkókó Area of Oǹdó State, South West, Nigeria

Abstract

Much work had been carried out on the role of women in Yorùbá traditional festivals. However, sufficient attention had not been given to female-dominated festivals especially in Àkókó area of Oǹdó State, South-West, Nigeria. This study examines the role and place of women in the society as depicted in Imolè festival (a female-dominated festival) in the identified geographical location. The theoretical framework is based on traditionalist approach and womanist theory. Traditionalist approach deals with the culture of the society while womanism focuses on women and their rights in the society. Our findings show that women play a very significant and relevant role in the religious life of their people as ritual specialists, food providers, entertainers and peace-loving people. The paper concludes that women are not evil objects; they are created for good and harmony of human life. It is therefore suggested that women should see the traditional image of the women as depicted in Imolè festival as a challenge to womanhood, and in particular the Nigerian women. Women should maintain the few good attributes of uprightness and vivacity and should use woman diplomacy productively.