By Uthman Oriyomi
The Yoruba people, one of the major ethnic groups in Nigeria, have a rich cultural heritage that includes various traditional games played during the pre-colonial period and still enjoyed today. Here are some of the notable traditional games:
1. Ayo (Ayoayo): This is a popular mancala game played with a wooden board containing twelve holes (or sometimes more) and forty-eight seeds. It is a strategy game that involves capturing opponents’ seeds.
2. Boju Boju: A traditional hide-and-seek game where one child covers their eyes and counts while others hide. The seeker then tries to find the hidden players.
3. Ijakadi (Wrestling): Traditional wrestling, often held during festivals or as a form of entertainment. It showcases strength and skill.
4. Kejetia: A tag game where players run around trying to tag one another. It involves agility and speed.
5. Langa: This is a hopping game similar to hopscotch, where players hop on one leg through a series of marked spaces on the ground.
6. Okoto: A spinning top game where children compete to keep their tops spinning the longest. It requires skill in spinning and balance.
7. Draughts (Checkers): This game, known locally as “Draft,” is played on a board with pieces that move diagonally, aiming to capture the opponent’s pieces by jumping over them.
8. Ten-Ten: A clapping and dancing game usually played by girls. It involves rhythmic movements and coordination.
9. Suwe: Similar to hopscotch, this game involves drawing a pattern on the ground and hopping through the spaces without stepping on the lines.
10. Ere Akin: A role-playing game where children mimic adult professions and activities, enhancing their understanding of societal roles.
These games are not only forms of entertainment but also serve to teach children important life skills such as strategy, coordination, physical fitness, and social interaction. They are an integral part of Yoruba cultural heritage.
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