Traditionalists perform circumcision on over 400 male children in Bauchi Community 

By Samuel Luka, Bauchi

The worshipers of African Traditional Religion in Bauchi State on Saturday held their triennial circumcision rituals on 450 eligible male children in Felu Community, Toro local government area of Bauchi state.

The Circumcision Rituals which was held in a grand ceremony hosted by Dangu Adamu, the Chief Priest of Felawa, took place on the largest mountain in the area, a site sacred to the practitioners.

The circumcision process involves symbolic offering of the children’s blood emanating from the circumcision to the gods

This year’s rituals saw the circumcision of 450 newborn children, adhering to the traditional practices.

The circumcision process involves symbolic offering of the children’s blood emanating from the circumcision to the gods.

The Chief priest explained that following the circumcision, the children remains on the mountain for two months to recover before rejoining their families.

He said that the tradition dictates that the circumcision rituals begin in January, during which, masquerades appear for 12 months.

The celebration reaches its peak around December 28th, with the Chief Priest preparing a communal feast and leading dances to send the masquerades away, not to return for another four years.

The Chief Priest of Felawa, initiated the ritual, followed by Chief Priests from other tribes within Toro LGA

As is customary, Dangu Adamu, the Chief Priest of Felawa, initiated the ritual, followed by Chief Priests from other tribes within Toro LGA, including Gazawa, Bolawa, and Zarandawa. The rites will continue until the end of January 2025.

Barrister Abubakar Abdulhamid, the Honorable Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, ably represented by Mbami Iliya Sabka, in his address, conveyed the government’s support under the leadership of His Excellency Senator Bala A. Mohammed, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and respect for traditional religions.

He also urged traditionalists to promote peace and assist the government in maintaining security.

The State Chairman of the Assembly of Traditional Religious Worshipers, highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting the values of African traditional religions

The commissioner announced financial support amounting to hundreds of thousands and assured continued government engagement with traditionalists.

On his part, Chief Priest Mbami Iliya Sabka, the State Chairman of the Assembly of Traditional Religious Worshipers, highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting the values of African traditional religions.

He stressed the need for unity and the contribution of traditionalists to the socio-cultural and spiritual development of Bauchi State.

Chief Priest Sabka called on the government to ensure justice and fair representation for traditional worshipers, advocating for official recognition to strengthen the ties between traditional practices and governance.

The event was marked by vibrant cultural displays, dancing, and communal meals, reinforcing the rich heritage and enduring traditions of African traditional religions in Bauchi State.