■ NWAOTAM FESTIVAL IN OPOBO, RIVERS STATE AND ABIA STATE.
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Otam is the god protective of all that is of good in the forest. Otam is also associated with finding pathways for hunters lost in the forest. Nwaotam means child (masquerade) of Otam
In Opobo, Nwaotam was introduced and modified to fulfill the function of Otam. To fill the gap of needing protection, blessing and cravity for all hunters. As a god of the forest, it predicts the fate of the people and carries the prediction with blessings to the people in town.
The Origin of Nwaotam Masquerade in Opobo Kingdom is traced to Ndoki people of South-east Nigeria, present day Abia State.
Every year Sons and Daughter of Opobo, return home to celebrate the Nwaotam Dance Drama Festival, which lasts from the last week of December into the new year.
Photo: Opobo nwotam, ABA, ABIA STATE
NWOTAM ABA AT ETCHE ROAD FIELD ABA.
Source: IGBO History (Igbos Since 3000BC)
