Esan masquerade

Esan masquerade is a traditional cultural practice from the Esan people of Nigeria, involving the use of elaborate masks and costumes during ceremonies and festivals. These masquerades serve as a means of connecting with ancestral spirits, celebrating community heritage, and enforcing social values. Participants, often called masqueraders, embody spirits or deities, performing dances and rituals to convey messages, honor ancestors, or mark important events. The practice preserves cultural identity, fosters social cohesion, and ensures the continuity of traditional beliefs and customs within the Esan community.