SOCIO-CULTURAL ROLE OF WOMEN IN EDEM FESTIVAL MASQUERADE DISPLAY AT EDEM DAY

Abstract

Masquerade performance in Igbo tradition is a prerogative activity of the male gender. Women are normally excluded from such ritual. The narrative is no more the same at Edem-Ani community on the occasion of Edem Day at Nweke Edem-Ani in Nsukka Local Government of Enugu State Nigeria. This study focused on the emerging roles of women in the socio-cultural practices in Edem-Ani which was observed during masquerade musical cultural display at Nweke Edem-Ani in Nsukka Local government of Enugu State. On the occasion of Edem day which is celebrated every 28th day of every December with particular interest to 2022 celebration. The research employed investigative method using in-depth study and focused group discussions whereby leaders of some of these masquerade groups were interrogated and data regarding the phenomenon under study were collected and analyzed. It was observed that women's involvement in socio-cultural events are gradually taking different dimensions which suggest gradual turn or change in the rigidity of masquerading activities and its membership selections. The finding calls for further studies into the area for more information on women participation in masquerade activities.