IWOYE-KETU

 In the Iwoye-Ketu community of the Imeko/Afon Local Government Area in Ogun State, Nigeria, the use of umbrellas for rain or sun protection is strongly discouraged. This long-standing tradition can be traced back to the 1700s and has remained unchanged despite the influence of Christianity and Islam, which have altered many other customs in the region.


The Iwoye-Ketu community is home to eight distinct ethnic groups, including the Egun, Hausa, Igbo, Fulani, Igede, Ohoi, and the Yorubas. The town shares a rich history with other ancient Yoruba towns like Oyo and Ile-Ife in Osun State.


According to local legend, one of the community's earliest settlers, named Olumu, migrated from Ile-Ife to Iwoye-Ketu with three significant items: a crown, a staff known as Opa Ogbo, and his deity called Orisa Oluwa. It is believed that the deity Orisa Oluwa specifically forbids the use of umbrellas in both Iwoye-Ketu and the smaller community of Wasinmi, which falls under Iwoye-Ketu's authority. Additionally, the deity prohibits the rearing of pigs due to their perceived uncleanliness.


A folktale explains the origins of the prohibition on umbrellas. It narrates that the initial settlers used to hunt elephants in the nearby forests. Since elephants possess ears that are large and resemble umbrellas in shape, they felt threatened whenever they encountered hunters carrying umbrellas. This frequently led to aggressive attacks by the elephants on the hunters. Seeking a solution, the hunters consulted with the Orisa Oluwa, who warned them against the use of umbrellas. From that point on, the prohibition became law and eventually transformed into a deeply ingrained tradition among the Iwoye-Ketu people.


Outside of the community, residents are free to use umbrellas without any negative consequences. However, within Iwoye-Ketu, the community members steadfastly adhere to this tradition. Instead, they rely on raincoats, woven hats, and other forms of clothing to shield themselves from rain or the sun.


Despite the modernization and cultural changes that have taken place over the centuries, the Iwoye-Ketu community continues to uphold this unique custom, which serves as a testament to their deep respect for their heritage and the influence of their traditional beliefs.

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