The Okun people are a subgroup of the Yoruba ethnic group located in the central part of Nigeria, predominantly in the current Kogi State, but also majorly found in Kwara State, since they used to be part of the old Kwara State.
Okun refers to the collective identity of various Yoruba-speaking communities in this region. Though they share many cultural similarities with other Yoruba groups, they have unique linguistic, historical, and cultural traits that distinguish them.
The Okun people consist of several subgroups, including the Ijumu, Kabba, Bunu, Yagba, and Oworo people. These subgroups have slight variations in dialects but share a strong sense of Okun identity.They speak different dialects of Yoruba, which include variations in vocabulary and intonation, but the language is still mutually intelligible with other Yoruba dialects.
Like the broader Yoruba culture, the Okun people are known for their rich traditions, festivals, and practices related to marriage, childbirth, and rites of passage. They have their own traditional music, dances, and folklore.
Historically, the Okun people practiced traditional Yoruba religion, worshipping deities like Sango (god of thunder) and Ogun (god of iron). Today, Christianity and Islam have become the dominant religions among the Okuns, though traditional beliefs persist in many areas.
They have a history that predates colonial times, and their ancestors are believed to have migrated from Ile-Ife, the ancestral home of the Yorubas. During the colonial era, the Okun people were part of the Northern Protectorate, unlike most other Yorubas who were under the Southern Protectorate, which has shaped their political and social history.
The region is largely agricultural, with the people engaging in farming of crops such as yams, cassava, maize, and palm produce. Trading and craftsmanship are also important economic activities.
The Okun people are proud of their heritage and continue to contribute significantly to Nigeria's cultural and political landscape.
Photo Credits: Nigerian News
