Introduction
Our next article takes us to Cross River State Nigeria to see a tribe called, the Bekwarra People. Nigeria is home to hundreds of ethnic groups, each with its own identity, customs, and history. Among these rich cultures is the one for the Bekwarra people, a unique and vibrant ethnic group located in northern Cross River State. Known for their hospitality, agricultural lifestyle, and colorful traditions, the Bekwarra people represent a strong cultural heritage that continues to thrive in modern Nigeria.
In this blog post, you will discover everything you need to know about the Bekwarra people—from their origin and history to their food, festivals, religion, and marriage customs.
1. History of the Bekwarra People
The Bekwarra people are one of the prominent ethnic groups in Cross River State, Nigeria. They form the majority population in Bekwarra Local Government Area, which was officially created in 1996. They are descendant of Agba who is also the progenitor of Obudu and Bekwarra Agba. It is a very explicit history as they proudly refer to each others as brothers.
Historically, the Bekwarra people are deeply connected to neighboring ethnic groups such as the Obudu, Ogoja, and Yala communities. Their history is often passed down through oral traditions, storytelling, and cultural practices.
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One notable historical reference is that Bekwarra land played a role during the early events of the Nigerian Civil War in 1967, making it a historically significant region in Nigeria’s political development.
The people are widely known for their peaceful nature, resilience, and strong communal values, which have helped preserve their traditions over generations.
2. Origin of the Bekwarra People
The origin of the Bekwarra people is rooted in ancestral lineage and oral tradition. According to local beliefs, they trace their ancestry to a progenitor known as Agba, who is also believed to be the ancestor of related groups like the Obudu people.
Some historical and linguistic connections suggest that the Bekwarra people are part of the broader Benue-Congo ethnic cluster, sharing similarities with other groups in southeastern Nigeria and even extending toward regions of Cameroon.
Their language, Bekwarra, is one of the dominant languages spoken in northern Cross River State and serves as a key marker of identity and unity among the people.
3. Location and Countries Where Bekwarra People Are Found
The Bekwarra people are primarily found in:
- Northern Cross River State (Nigeria)
- Border communities near Benue State
- Areas close to Cameroon
They are located in the southeastern part of Nigeria, close to the Cameroon border.
Although the majority reside in Nigeria, migration has led to Bekwarra communities being found in:
- Urban cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt
- Diaspora communities in Europe and beyond
Their proximity to Cameroon also reflects cultural and historical interactions with neighboring groups across borders.
4. Culture and Way of Life
The Bekwarra people have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in tradition and community life.
Key Cultural Features:
- Hospitality: Bekwarra people are known for being warm and welcoming.
- Agricultural lifestyle: Farming is central to their identity.
- Traditional attire: Often features black, white, and red stripes, symbolizing soil, peace, and strength.
- Music and dance: Traditional dances play a major role in ceremonies and festivals.
Their culture emphasizes unity, respect for elders, and communal living, which are still evident in their daily lives.
5. Food of the Bekwarra People
Food is a major part of the Bekwarra people culture, reflecting their agricultural lifestyle.
Popular Foods:
- Beniseed (sesame) soup
- Groundnut soup
- Bitter leaf soup
- Dry okra soup
- Yam-based dishes
Yam is particularly important and is regarded as the “king of crops” among the Bekwarra people.
Other staple foods include:
- Cassava
- Cocoyam
- Maize
- Plantain
Palm wine and palm oil are also widely consumed and used in cooking.
Their cuisine is not just about nourishment—it is a symbol of identity, celebration, and hospitality.
They are producers of Cocoa yam, Cocoa, Pawpaw, Pineapple, ginger, etc.
6. Religion of the Bekwarra People
Traditionally, the Bekwarra people practiced African Traditional Religion, which includes:
- Ancestor worship
- Belief in spirits and deities
- Ritual practices and sacrifices
According to research, many Bekwarra people historically practiced animism, a belief system centered on spiritual forces in nature.
However, today:
- Christianity is the dominant religion
- Churches such as Catholic, Pentecostal, and evangelical denominations are common
Despite the spread of Christianity, elements of traditional beliefs still influence cultural practices, especially during festivals and rites of passage.
7. Festivals of the Bekwarra People
The Ipem-Ihihe Festival (New Yam Festival)
The most important and widely celebrated festival among the Bekwarra people is the Ipem-Ihihe Festival, also known as the New Yam Festival.
This festival is a major cultural event that celebrates the beginning of the yam harvest season.
When is it celebrated?
- Usually held annually
- Often takes place around September
Everything You Need to Know About the Festival
1. Meaning and Significance
The festival marks:
- The end of the farming season
- The beginning of harvest
- Gratitude to God and ancestors
It is both a spiritual and cultural celebration.
2. Key Activities During the Festival
The Ipem-Ihihe festival is colorful and lively, featuring:
- Traditional dance performances
- Cultural parades
- Masquerade displays
- Music and drumming
- Community feasting
These activities help preserve Bekwarra traditions and pass them down to younger generations to generations.
3. Cultural Importance of Bekwarra People
The festival plays a vital role in:
- Preserving identity
- Strengthening community bonds
- Promoting tourism in Cross River State
It is more than a celebration—it is a symbol of unity and heritage which has been existing some years ago.
4. Dress Code and Symbolism
Participants wear traditional attire with symbolic colors:
- Black – fertile land
- White – peace and hospitality
- Red – strength and resilience
5. Food During the Festival
Yam dishes dominate the celebration, including:
- Boiled yam
- Pounded yam
- Yam porridge
Some drinks are also presented, among them are fresh palm wine is also served during the festivities.
8. Marriage Traditions of the Bekwarra People
Marriage among the Bekwarra people is a respected cultural institution and involves several traditional steps.
Stages of Marriage:
- Marriage Introduction (Family Meeting)
- The groom’s family visits the bride’s family
- Bride Price Negotiation
- Items such as food, drinks, and money are presented
- Traditional Ceremony
- Cultural rites are performed
- Blessings are given by elders
- Celebration
During the celebrations, all the music instrument played by the Bekwarra people will be gracing the event. Marriage celebration is very important to many traditions, especially in Africa. And marriage celebrations are not complete without these listed below such as:
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- Music, dance, and feasting
Marriage is not just between two individuals—it is a union of families and communities.
9. Occupation and Economy
The Bekwarra people are primarily farmers and some pocket of them are civil servants. They farm crops like Groundnut in Gakem, Rice in Ugboro etc.
Main Economic Activities:
- Farming (yam, cassava, maize, groundnut)
- Palm oil production
- Local trading
Their agrarian lifestyle plays a major role in shaping their culture, especially festivals like Ipem-Ihihe.
10. Language of the Bekwarra People
The Bekwarra people speak the Bekwarra language, which is widely used in:
- Daily communication
- Cultural ceremonies
- Traditional songs and storytelling
The language is an important part of their identity and helps preserve their heritage.
Conclusion
The Bekwarra people of Cross River State are a remarkable example of Nigeria’s cultural richness. From their deep-rooted history and ancestral origins to their vibrant festivals and strong communal values, they continue to preserve traditions that define who they are.
The Ipem-Ihihe Festival stands out as a powerful expression of their identity, celebrating agriculture, unity, and heritage. Their food, religion, marriage customs, and way of life all reflect a people deeply connected to their land and traditions. Despite globalization, they keep maintaining their culture and traditions.
Understanding the Bekwarra people is not just about learning a culture—it is about appreciating the diversity and beauty of Nigeria itself. Hope this article about the Bekwarra people is helpful? Keep visiting our blog for this and many more as we keep posting about cultural heritage.