Introduction / History

Okpe and Idesa people live in close proximity to one another and are considered to be of the same ethnic group. Their traditional language was Orake. Today, only older people still speak it, while most younger people use Nigerian Pidgin, English, Yoruba, or Okpe (which is related to Orake). Okpe-Idesa people reside in the Akoko-Edo LGA (Local Government Areas) in Edo State. The area is marked by chains of ancient ridges, of rugged rocky hills, and a cave, stretching across the length and breadth of the region. The beautiful hills are believed to be the result of volcanic eruptions.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The main occupations of the Okpe-Idesa people are farming, hunting and craftmanship. Women work in palm oil and garri (flour made from cassava root) production, and some are weavers. Other people engage in small trading businesses. The New Yam Festival is an important event celebrated to thank God for a bountiful harvest. Taboo is an important concept in their culture. People avoid forbidden behaviors that may result in unpleasant consequences.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Christianity was introduced in the area in the 19th century. Though a small percentage have become Christians, and many have adopted Western weddings and education customs, the majority follow African Traditional Religion. Animism, a belief that natural physical entities such as animals, plants, and even inanimate objects possess a spiritual essence, is its core concept.

What Are Their Needs?

Like people all over the world, Okpe-Idesas need to put all their faith in Jesus Christ, the only one who can bless them with abundant, eternal life.

Prayer Items

Pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, bringing revival among the Okpe-Idesa people that will bless them for eternity.Pray for an abundance of Okpe-Idesa disciplers who will teach others to make more disciples. Pray for the Lord to bless Okpe-Idesa families economically and spiritually, leading them to eternal faith in Christ.Pray for Okpe-Idesa family leaders to point the way to Jesus Christ for entire clans.

Scripture Prayers for the Okpe-Idesa in Nigeria.

References

SILA List Of All Edo Dialects And Where Their Speakers Are Found. - Culture - Nigeria (nairaland.com)Idesa | Ethnologue FreePeopleGroups.org - Okpe-idesaAkoko-Edo Cluster Proposal Seed Company Database