Onyekulufa and Atu-Mma: breaking the barriers of gender discrimination in health-related indigenous masquerade performances in Nigeria

Abstract

The prevalence of various health challenges that have contributed to high mortality rates among women and children in Nigeria in recent times is usually attributed to illiteracy and ignorance. Because the prevalence rate is higher in rural communities, there is need to explore alternative modes of communication that are familiar to these communities. There is some valuable information on various health challenges embedded in masquerade-based indigenous performances and shared at cult gatherings that consciously exclude women. This discriminatory attitude discourages the accessibility of useful information that could engender healthy practices and encourage behavioural change. Interestingly, however, a few masquerade cults have transcended gender-based discriminatory exclusion to embrace wider involvement. Yet some have not. This research is an investigation into what has been responsible for the perpetuation of discriminatory practices, using two masquerade cult groups: the Onyekulufa and Atu-mma of Umuoji in Idemili North Local government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria as models. It recommends a culture-centred approach to the transformation and repositioning of masquerade performances for effective health communication in rural communities.

Keywords: Performance, culture, health, communication