Okpe, SW Edoid in Nigeria

Introduction / History

The Northwestern Edoid Okpe people were once a proud kingdom. Legend has it that the founder of the Okpe Kingdom migrated from Old Ife in Osun State about two hundred years ago. They now live in the Akoko-Edo Local Government Areas of Edo State. They live in an area surrounded by beautiful hills, which are said to have been formed by a volcanic eruption. Okpe people still hold onto their traditional Okpe language.

What Are Their Lives Like?

A day in the life of an Okpe woman can start as early as 4 a.m., when they rises to sweep the compound and tidy up their house. Afterwards, they may go to their farms or travel to market to sell fried cakes or moimoi and pap, which are popular on Saturdays. Some women are employed in the production of palm oil or garri (a flour made from the casava root), others in weaving. In the evening, they engage in social activities and recreation. Men also rise early, going to their farm or to work in various trades. Afterwards, they return home, go for a drink, or a game.Unlike neighboring language groups, which rotate the role of king, the Okpe kingship (Olokpe) is passed from father to son. The New Yam Festival is an important event celebrated to thank God for a bountiful harvest. Seven days before the main celebration, farmers, hunters, and traders begin to pay homage to the Okpe in his palace with their produce, including assorted bush meat, goats, and yam tubers, as a mark of respect for his throne.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Christianity was introduced in the area in the 19th century. One in four identify as Christian. Many have also adopted Western-style weddings and education. Christianity has had a strong moral influence on the community as evidenced by their peaceful and friendly lifestyle.Most others continue to follow a traditional religion that is based on animism. They believe that natural physical entities such as animals, plants, and even inanimate objects possess a spiritual essence. They are fearful of breaking taboos lest they incur unpleasant consequences.

What Are Their Needs?

The economy is poor in the language area. People lack amenities such as medical care, good roads, stable electric power, good drinking water, good schools, and other facilities.Data gathered in a survey shows that all generations use the Okpe language in the ethnic community. It is not taught in schools. The elderly teach the Okpe language to the young. However, some youth may be more interested in learning English for better educational and employment opportunities.Short audio Bible stories and evangelistic messages that explain salvation and basic Christian teaching, which may also include songs and music, are available at gospelrecordings.net. Some other oral Bible stories have also been crafted, and a translation team recently completed the “JESUS” film.To preserve their language, community leaders may be interested in further kinds of Bible translation and literacy projects.

Prayer Points

Pray Okpe speakers will engage with Scripture that is available online.Ask God to move in people’s hearts as the community begins showings of the JESUS Film.Pray for the Okpe community and church leaders to pursue further oral or written translation projects to provide their people with more of God’s Word in their heart language.

Text Source:   Joshua Project