13 Interesting Facts About the People of Idoma Ethnic Group in Nigeria

In this article, you will get to see lots of interesting facts about the Idoma people. Here, you will get to learn about their language, location and so much more. However, we hope you enjoy reading this and check out more.

13 Interesting Facts About the People of Idoma Ethnic Group

13 Interesting Facts About the People of the Idoma Ethnic Group

The following are some of the interesting facts about the great Idoma ethnic group in Nigeria. And, they include:

1. Language

The Idoma people unsurprisingly speak the Idoma language. Also, it is a very widely spoken language. And, it is being passed down from parent to child with methods such as folktales and songs

2. Food

In the case of food, they produce very tasty foods and are known for this all over the country. And, for instance, their Okoho soup is prepared using the Okoho stick which gets slimy when cooked, bush meat is also added. And, it is served with pounded yam, eba, or semolina. Also, the soup helps with digestion.

3. Population is Among the Interesting Facts About the People of the Idoma Ethnic Group 

There are approximately 3.5 million Idoma people, this information is based on the most recent Nigerian census which took place in 2006. So, we can assume this number has changed since then.

4. Traditional Colors

The traditional Colors of the Idoma people are red and black. However, they make use of these colors during events like their festivals, marriage ceremonies, and burials.

5. Religion

The Idoma people partake in three main religions, these are Christianity, Islam, and their ethnic religion. Now, Christianity is the most followed of the three religions, this is likely due to the influence of British colonization.

6. Location: Interesting Facts About the People of the Idoma Ethnic Group

Throughout the 36 states in Nigeria, the Idoma can be located in 6, which is more than most. These 6 states are Benue State, Taraba State, Nassarawa State, Enugu State, Cross River State, and Kogi State. However, they have their highest population in Benue state.

7. Livelihood

In the past, the Idoma people were hunters and fierce warriors. However, these days you can see them in more modern professions such as accountancy, engineering, writing and so many more.

8. Marriage

The key detail that separates the Idoma marriage from other tribes is after the payment of the Bride price, the groom and his family must present the bride with a rooster and money on the marriage day. And, if she accepts, the marriage can continue if not, tough luck.

9. Ethnic Religion is on the List of Interesting Facts About the People of the Idoma Ethnic Group

They believe in Alkewu, the ancestral spirits. However, this acts as a sort of link between the living and the dead, watching over and protecting the living. And, they hold an annual festival known as Aje Alkewu in honor of the ancestors across the land.

10. Dressing

The women of the Idoma group wear a wrapper that starts from the chest level down to the ankles, they also wear necklaces, earrings, and bracelets made out of red beads. However, the men wear white beads around their necks, a shirt, and a cap.

11. Origin

Based on stories passed on by the Idoma people, they have a common ancestor known as Iduh. Also, Iduh is believed to have had 8 children who begot the Idoma people.

12. Traditional Dance: Interesting Facts About the People of Idoma Ethnic Group

The most popular dance of the Idoma people is “Ogirinya”. And, you can find videos of people performing this dance online.

13. Festival

The great people of the Idoma ethnic groups have a great love for food. So, there is an annual food festival while holds yearly in the community.

Conclusion

Lastly, we hope this article has opened your eyes to some of the interesting facts about the Idoma people. Also, we hope it was interesting reading and getting to know more about the way of life or rather the culture of the people of the Idoma ethnic group.

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