By Akpokona Omafuaire, OPOROZA

OPOROZA—The traditional headquarters of the Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State has turned into a cultural hub as traditional worshippers and tourists from across Nigeria converge to celebrate the 2025 Amasiekumor Festival in grand style.

The annual festival, popularly known as the “Festival of Peace, Justice, and Wealth,” is currently in full swing, with devotees engaging in spirited worship and rituals.

Signs of the vibrant celebration are evident from the surge in traveler traffic at Miller Waterside, where free speedboats provided by the organizers ferry guests to Oporoza. A large Contonou boat laden with cows, sheep, goats, and assorted foodstuffs heading toward the festival town underscores the level of preparation and expectation.

Pilgrims arriving with joy and speedboat operators enthusiastically navigating the waterways reflect the excitement in the air. On arrival in Oporoza, the town buzzes with activity. Caterers line the streets, serving meals to pilgrims, tourists, and journalists alike without discrimination.

Well-decorated canopies stretch from the Egbesu shrine through the grounds of the Oporoza Guest House to the old palace, with drumming and live music filling the atmosphere with an infectious rhythm.

Speaking on the opening day of the festival, Barr. McDonald Igbadiwei, spokesman of the Gbaruan Nation, welcomed accredited journalists and clarified key cultural practices. He emphasized that the media is free to cover all aspects of the event and reassured the public that no human sacrifices are part of the festival.

“No woman is barred from the temple—except those currently on their monthly flow,” Igbadiwei noted. “Female journalists in such condition must not approach the temple, as there are spiritual consequences. Male journalists who were intimate with a woman the night before must also undergo spiritual cleansing before entering the temple with their cameras.”

The Amasiekumor Festival officially began on Saturday, April 19, 2025, in Oporoza. Igbadiwei explained that the ancient celebration is deeply rooted in Ijaw tradition, combining fun, entertainment, and spiritual reverence. Masquerades adorned in vibrant traditional regalia will parade on various days, while women and youth groups will participate in ceremonial dances honoring the goddess Amaseikumor.

On the subject of sacrifice, he reiterated: “There is no human sacrifice. The festival is sacred but not secret. Offerings include cows, rams, drinks, cash, and various food items to appease Amaseikumor—the goddess of prosperity, longevity, fertility, love, and good health—and other Ijaw deities.”

The 2025 edition of the festival is drawing significant media attention, with journalists arriving from across Nigeria and abroad, including representatives of international outlets like CNN.

Oporoza itself is a sight to behold, adorned with colorful wrappers and freshly painted homes, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Igbadiwei concluded with a note of caution: “Please secure your cameras, phones, and laptops. While many come to worship, some attend with less noble intentions. The organizers will not be held responsible for theft.”