#ngbe

The Ekoi / Ejagham masks (people living south of the border between Nigeria and Cameroon) were used by the Leopard, Kpe or Ngbe secret societies during the various initiation ceremonies, agricultural rituals, funerals of members of the different associations. The Egbo is also a secret Ekoi society which manages religious and social affairs. The main Ekoi deities are Obassi Osaw (God of Heaven) and Obassi Nsi (God of Earth). Ekoi masks often wear impressive braids, in reference to the headdresses that women wear during various social or initiation ceremonies. These masks are also found in other peoples such as the Efik, the Kéaka, the Banyang, the Boki, the Ibibo, etc.