INTRODUCTION:

I hail from the Igbo region of Nigeria, a place deeply rooted in Nigerian history and culture, where prominent figures like Nnamdi Kanu, Dr. Azikiwe, and Gen. Emeka O. Ojukwu were born, raised, and eventually laid to rest. Recently, I was struck by the elaborate burial customs practiced in my community, prompting me to ponder the reasons behind such extravagance.

PREPARATIONS BEFORE BURIAL:

Upon the passing of a parent, the first step is to seek guidance from the elders of the community. They provide instructions on the proper procedures to follow. In the case of a deceased mother, one must inform her maternal relatives of her illness without disclosing her passing. For a deceased father, instructions are sought from his elder kinsmen.
These consultations are accompanied by traditional ceremonies, during which the deceased's body may be kept in a morgue for several months, depending on the financial resources of the family. The actual burial date is not disclosed until later, and these rituals are observed for all individuals except unmarried youths.

In the case of an elderly deceased person, significant financial sacrifices are often required to meet the demands of the burial rites. For example, my mother, who recently passed away at the age of 99, required considerable financial resources for her burial.

Despite the financial burden, I was reminded that this was a celebration of her life, and I was tasked with fulfilling all necessary obligations.
The elaborate burial process for my mother lasted from February 1 to May 23, when she was finally laid to rest. I was astonished by the expenses involved, especially as a pensioner, but I learned that others in our community, like a neighbor who spent sixteen million Naira on his mother's burial, also partake in this competitive display of extravagance.

RENOVATION OF OLD STRUCTURES:

In some cases, families use the opportunity of a burial ceremony to renovate their ancestral homes, making them more suitable for the occasion. Others may even begin construction on new buildings as a demonstration of their wealth and influence. Additionally, a significant number of livestock, such as cows, goats, and birds, are slaughtered to provide food for the attendees.

Maternal relatives may also request a cow or two as part of the traditional customs.
If the family chooses to involve the church in the burial rites, additional demands and requirements must be met.

PROCESSION FROM THE MOURNTURY HOUSE:

After the mourning rituals are completed, the procession moves to the ancestral home where the burial ceremony will take place. In the case of a deceased mother, it is customary to stopover at her maternal home as a sign of respect. The maternal relatives receive the deceased and allow the family to proceed with the journey. Upon arrival at the ancestral home, the elders are consulted to formally receive the deceased before they are laid in state inside the house.

During the laying in state, attendees are invited to pay their last respects to the deceased before a church service is held, including testimonies, songs, prayers, and messages conducted by the church.

BURIAL:

The church appoints a minister to officiate the interment ceremony, following which the deceased is laid to rest in a grave six feet deep, covered with either soil or a specially constructed slab.

RECEPTION:

After the burial ceremony, attendees are provided with refreshments, ranging from light snacks to full meals, ensuring that everyone departs safely and content.

NOTE:

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