Picture of the Day: Igogo Festival, Ondo State

 The Igogo Festival takes place in Owo, Ondo State. It lasts a total of seventeen days and features a number of ceremonies, including the blessing and introduction of new yams. The festival is in commemoration of the king's wife who turned into a tree while fleeing the palace after her rival violated her taboos in her presence. During the period of celebration, drums are banned in Owo and metal gongs (agogo) are used instead (it is from this term that "Igogo" was derived). The Olowo (King) of Owo dresses in coral beaded gown during the period and plaits his hair like a woman. The festival takes place annually in September. The aim of the festival is to encourage the youths of the community to be more involved in their cultural practices. Visit our Discover Nigeria section to learn more about Nigerian traditions, history and geography and follow our Discover Nigeria Twitter handle for all things positive about Nigeria. Image source