The Iria ceremony holds a significant place in the hearts of women within the Bonny speaking community in Rivers State, Nigeria. It is a traditional rite of passage, welcoming girls and women who are born or married into the Bonny Kingdom into womanhood.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Originally known as “Okoloama,” the modern name “Bonny” derived from a distortion. According to tradition, the land where Bonny Island is situated was abundant with curlews, leading its founder Alagbariaghe to name it “Okoloama,” meaning “land of curlew birds.”
Located on the Bight of Bonny, Bonny is a coastal town and serves as the headquarters of the Bonny Local Government Area. It is also the capital of the Kingdom of Bonny, known for producing Bonny Light oil.
The Iria ceremony involves native tattoo drawings on the body and dance practices leading up to the main event.
Primarily observed in the Ibani Kingdom within the Bonny Local Government Area, it serves as a series of traditional rites to mark the physical maturation of young girls reaching puberty. Some people also refer to the ceremony as the “tying of two wrappers.”
For Tamunoibelema Stella Ogere, age 60, who grew up and resides outside of Bonny, participating in this ancient tradition has long been a desire. With great joy and a sense of fulfillment, she finally performs this revered rite of passage to womanhood on August 31, 2024, captivating the admiration of both men and women within the Ibani Kingdom of Bonny.
“It has taken me so long to partake in this Iria ceremony due to my marriage to a non-indigene and living outside of Bonny. I am incredibly happy,” she enthuses.
Kindly share
