A Historical Evolution and Development of Amassoma Seigbein Fishing and Feasting Festival in Central Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

Abstract

Festivals are special events which are associated with the historical, religious and traditional roots of the people, set aside by them to be celebrated. The Amassoma Seigbein fishing and feasting festival is a festival set aside by the Amassoma people to commemorate and honour Oboro the progenitor of Amassoma community. Oboro the Great is a son of Akama (Snr) the progenitor of Ogboin clan, who was also a son of Ijo the progenitor of Ijo ethnic group in Central Niger Delta region of Nigeria. For convenience and understanding the paper is divided into four sections. Section one examined the geographical location and history of Amassoma community and the conceptual clarification of festival. Section two x-rayed the historical evolution and developmental impact of the festival. Section three dealt with the traditional practices and programs of the festival, while section four, concentrated on the conclusion and recommendation of the study. In doing so, the paper adopted primary and secondary sources of historical methodology in gathering materials. The aim(s) of the study is to spotlight the rich cultural festival of Amassoma people to the globe and to add to existing body of knowledge of festivals of Ijo ethnic group of Central Niger Delta region of Nigeria. In the course of the study, the paper advanced some recommendations. One of such recommendation is that Bayelsa State, Federal government and Non-governmental organization(s) should see festival as a symbol of peace, love and unity. Conclusively, the cultural festival of Amassoma is their link and identity to their progenitor and forebears.