Ivom (Amar Or Genga) Festival

Ivom is from an earth mound, the type you find in a Tiv farm. In this context, the Ivom is a colossal earth mound raised by the host. The guest is required to climb to the top while dancing feverishly to the scintillating beat of the talking drum. Later in the day there is lavish entertainment comprising of “burukutu” (local beer), food and meat.

The main purpose of the feast is to display wealth and in so doing, score a point against the financially less privileged members of an age group. An age mate could throw such a feast for another. Usually, a man from Igba (mother clan) can “throw” such a feast for an Igba (one who hails from the latter’s clan).