Ikono Local Government in Akwa Ibom State is one of the most culturally rich places in Nigeria. If you have visited Ikono or you are from there, you will agree that some things happen only there.
Here are 5 things you will only see in Ikono villages:
*1. The Village Town Crier With Metal Gong (Akankang)* In Ikono, information does not only come from WhatsApp. Early in the morning, you will hear "Gong! Gong! Gong!" from the town crier. He moves from one corner to another announcing meetings, market days or important messages from the village head. No speaker, just his voice and the metal gong.
*2. Children Fetching Water From Stream With Basins On Their Head* Forget taps. In many Ikono villages, children still wake up early to fetch water from streams like Iyem or Ndubia with basins perfectly balanced on their heads. They do it with joy, gist and laughter — and they never pour the water.
*3. The Market Where Everything Is Measured In Basins and Cups* In Obo Market and other Ikono markets, rice, garri, beans and even pepper are not sold in kilograms. They are measured in basins, cups and rubber. The market women have a unique way of shaking the basin to make it full. If you are not from Ikono, you will be confused.
*4. Masquerades (Ekpo) Dancing In Broad Daylight* In Ikono, masquerade is not only for night festivals. You can see Ekpo masquerades dancing in the afternoon during festive seasons, especially in December and during village celebrations. The drumming, the costume made from raffia, and the crowd following it is a sight you will never forget.
*5. Everybody Knows Everybody - True Community Life* In Ikono villages, you cannot be a stranger for long. Whether you are in Nkwot, Mbiabong, or Ediene, someone will ask you "Ete, anie idung fi?" (Sir, whose compound are you from?). The communal life, the respect for elders, and how people support each other during farming season is something you will rarely see in Lagos or Uyo.
*Conclusion:* Ikono is not just a local government, it is a place with culture, peace and originality. If you have never visited, you should.
Are you from Ikono? Which one did I miss? Drop it in the comment.
#Ikono #AkwaIbom #Culture #IbibioCulture #VillageLife
