Wrestling Contest in Ikwerre land - An Age Long Tradition
Wrestling is a combat sport which is either theatrical (for entertainment) or genuinely competitive. It is one of the oldest forms of physical combat.
In Africa, its origin can be traced to the ancient Egyptian society. Meanwhile this fighting sport is found in nearly every community on the continent of Africa. Although every group had its unique ways of practicing this martial art.
In Nigeria, wrestling occupies a prominent place in legend and literature; and it is deeply rooted in the people's culture. Fighting arts are believed to serve as a means of protection and a way of bringing glory to any successful tribe.
The Igbo of eastern Nigeria are accorded respect for their unique skills in practicing this art. One thing which distinguishes the Igbo wrestling from others is the hooking, reeling and sweeping the feet skills. Also the Igbo have overtime, imbibed the combating art (wrestling contest) as part of their new yam festival which is celebrated yearly, before yam harvest begins. This fighting art is still being practiced in most Igbo communities in Eastern Nigeria.
The Ikwerre Ethnic Group
Ikwerre (also spelt ikwere) are a sub-ethnic group of the south-eastern part of Nigeria. They can be found in various communities in Rivers State. They Ikwerres are found in towns and communities like Elelenwo, Rumukwurushi, Igwuruta, etc.
The indigenous people are predominantly farmers, fishermen, and hunters and they trace their origin to Owerri, Ohaji, Ngwa and Etche areas in Igbo land. This is however a clear indication that the Ikwerre’s had borrowed this wrestling culture from the Igbos.
Wrestling competition is an integral part of Ikwerre culture because it is believed that the competition not only builds unity amongst the communities or clans involved but also develops the spirit of defense in the minds of the able-bodied youth. Also, wrestling is viewed as a source of entertainment.
How the Game is organized
1.) It is a competition between two or more clans or villages in Ikwerre land, each with able bodied men who may or may not belong to the same age grade.
2.) The competition is carried out in an open space (usually a playground).
3.) Competitors are arranged facing each other across a clear space (usually at the middle).
4.) A judge or judges are chosen from notable men who may have bagged awards in past wrestling contests or from among the crowd.
5.) Leaves (believed to have strengthening powers on contestants) are provided alongside white powder.
6.) Drummers and dancers are present, chiefs or elders and a team of cheering fans.
7.) Presence of the “Erugbu” dancers; this is an Ikwerre cultural dance in which drummers sit opposite each other, playing wonderful tunes, while men and women dance in circles to the admiration of spectators. Other dance troupes such as the “Eri-Ndudu” and “Eri-Oboh” may also be available.
The rules of the game
1.) A wrestler must have his opponent's back touch the ground before he is declared winner.
2.) Contestants are allowed to deliberately drop their knees on the ground as a tactical manoeuvre to outwit the opponent.
3.) Should the wrestlers be unable to throw each other, it is believed that they have equalized.
4.) Winning teams are allowed to lift up their man and dance around in utter jubilation.
5.) Prizes are given to those who performed credibly, they become famous and this somehow increases their chances of choosing any bride of their choice because it is believed that women would fall easily for brave men.
Conclusion
It is important to note that the wrestling arena is a celebration arena; as there is usually enough to eat and drink while people make merry. Also, this contest is usually organized annually.
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Our past
Not just our past dear, wrestling contest still exists presently and might still be in the future. As a matter of fact, I was inspired to write about it after I witnessed one recently.