My Community
My name is Onisile Samuel, and I have the privilege of calling Mafoluku, Oshodi, my home. Nestled in the bustling city of Lagos, my community is a vibrant tapestry woven with rich cultural traditions, mouth-watering cuisines, and a collective spirit that defines us. Growing up in this lively environment has not only shaped my identity but has also instilled in me an enduring sense of belonging and appreciation for the customs that govern our lives.
One of the most striking aspects of life in Mafoluku is the way we celebrate our traditional festivals. The sound of drums echoes through the streets as we prepare for the Egungun festival, a time when the spirit of our ancestors is believed to visit and bless us. The days leading up to the festival are filled with excitement, as families don colorful attire and come together to honor their heritage. Similarly, the Oro festival, steeped in cultural significance, allows us to tap into our spiritual roots, reminding everyone in the community of the power of our traditions. The Osun festival, along the river of the same name, is celebrated with rituals that reflect our deep connection to nature. Other notable celebrations, like Ileya and Odun, echo our Islamic and Yoruba heritages, respectively, emphasizing togetherness and gratitude.
Customs play an essential role in our day-to-day lives, creating a unique fabric of community respect and unity. We hold elder members in high regard, as they are considered the custodians of our traditions. Their wisdom guides us, and the simple act of greeting them with respect is not just a custom but a heartfelt practice ingrained in our upbringing. One rule that stands out in our community is the strict enforcement of a "no banger or knockouts" policy, especially during festive periods. This ensures that our celebrations, while loud with joy, remain safe and harmonious. Furthermore, the practice of locking street gates from 10 PM to 5 AM fosters security and peace, allowing families to rest easy knowing their children and homes are safe through the night.
Our culinary landscape is a sumptuous reflection of our cultural heritage. Traditional foods are abundant and cherished, each dish a story of flavor and experiment passed down through generations. I can almost smell the delicious aroma of pounded yam paired with egusi soup wafting through my neighborhood on weekends. For many, Jollof rice is a staple at every celebration, a dish that brings friends and family together. The fried bean cakes, known as akara, are often served for breakfast, while suya—a spicy grilled meat skewer—is a street food favorite that captures the essence of our local flavors. Adalu, a blend of yam and beans, Ogunfe, made from cornmeal with beans, and the soft, steamed bean cake called Ekuru showcase the diversity of our cuisine. Each meal is a reminder of the ties that bind us and the experiences we share.
Not to be overlooked are the traditional drinks that accompany our meals and gatherings. I remember my father sipping ogogoro, a local gin, shared among friends as they reminisce about the past. Agbo Jedi, a herbal concoction, is often enjoyed for its health benefits, and kunu, the delightful millet drink, serves to cool the heat of the sun during our hot afternoons. Zobo, made from hibiscus flowers, adds a refreshing twist to any occasion, while fresh coconut water quenches our thirst with the essence of tropical life.
Living in Mafoluku, I have learned that every corner of my community speaks of a history vibrant with warmth and shared experiences. As I step out of my house and walk down the familiar streets, I am consistently reminded of the respect we hold for our elders, the joy of our festivals, and the flavors that define our meals. My community, with its customs and traditions, is a resilient and loving haven that shapes who I am. It isn’t just a place; it’s a profound sense of identity, a heartbeat that resonates with the stories of our past, echoing into the future.
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