Residents' perceptions of the sociocultural effects of cultural festivals in Igala Kingdom, Nigeria
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Abstract
Cultural festivals constitute important platforms for the expression, preservation and transmission of indigenous heritage and may influence the social and cultural life of host communities in significant ways. This study examined the sociocultural impacts of Egwu, Egbe, Eka and Ogani cultural festivals on host communities in Igala Kingdom, Nigeria. The study adopted a mixed-method research design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Three Local Government Areas—Dekina, Igalamela/Odolu/Odolu and Ibaji—and nine host communities were purposively selected for the study. A sample of 400 respondents was determined using the Taro Yamane formula, while 48 key informants were selected through snowball sampling. Structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. Out of the 400 questionnaires administered, 370 were validly completed and returned. Quantitative data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, mean scores and chi-square statistics, while qualitative data were coded and analysed thematically. The findings revealed predominantly positive perceptions of the sociocultural effects associated with the festivals. The chi-square analysis revealed a statistically significant association between respondents' Local Government Areas and their perceptions of the sociocultural effects of the festivals, χ²(6, N = 370) = 91.48, p < .001, with Cramer's V = .352. Qualitative findings further revealed that the festivals promote social integration, family reunion, cultural revitalization, community pride and intergenerational transmission of cultural knowledge. However, concerns were identified regarding resource wastage, child labour, substance use, language barriers and possible external influences on traditional values. The study concludes that residents generally perceive the selected cultural festivals as having positive sociocultural relevance, although these perceptions vary across locations and include some reported negative consequences.
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