Buga Zibu - Fusion of tradition and religion in Dagbon
Buga Zibu, literally meaning “Carrying smaller gods”, is a significant tradition and cultural celebration that takes place in Dagbon on the evening of the day of Eid-ul-Adha.
Also known as Naa Jingli, this traditional festival is distinct from conventional Eid celebrations.
It is uniquely observed by the Overlord of Dagbon, who unveils himself to walk among his people in a symbolic display of unity, leadership and spiritual authority.
A key feature of Buga Zibu is the participation of young girls and men between the ages of 18 and 25 years, who carry miniature gods to the prayer ground.
These gods are brought out symbolically to “witness” and participate in the celebration, infusing the occasion with deep traditional and spiritual significance.
Celebration
The celebration begins with a special prayer led by the Chief Imam for the Overlord. Unlike standard Muslim prayers, this prayer is performed in a joyful atmosphere.
The gods being carried out from the Gbewa Palace for the celebration
The Ya-Na and his subordinates take part in this celebration.
In a gesture of connection with his people, the Overlord rides a horse halfway to the venue and completes the rest of the journey on foot.
Rather than riding in a car or being entirely on horseback, he walks accompanied by drummers who sing and chant his praises.
The Rhema School Park in Yendi, the traditional seat of Dagbon, serves as the main venue for the celebration.
The festival includes captivating performances by warriors who dance and fire muskets as a sign of homage and loyalty to the Overlord.
These displays highlight the rich cultural heritage and communal strength of the Dagbon people.
Experiences
For many, the festival is a deeply moving experience.
A first-time attendee, Salamatu Mpaga, told the Daily Graphic that “seeing the Overlord in person for the first time has been an emotional and inspiring experience. It has sparked curiosity and a greater appreciation for the cultural importance of the event."
She added that witnessing the Naa Jingli offers the public a deeper understanding of the Dagbon people's traditions and heritage.
For his part, Kwame Sarpong Kwame Kojo, from the Ashanti Region, who witnessed the celebration, described it as a captivating and interesting culture.
“A friend brought me here, and I’m glad I came.
The prayer is very traditional — nothing like the typical Muslim prayers I have seen.
It really helps you connect with your roots and understand the role of traditional leadership in our society," he said.
Significance
Speaking to the Daily Graphic, Traditional Historian Abdulai Mohammed Mutala, explained that the event enabled the public to see the Ya-Na, who rarely appears in public.
He explained that “this kind of prayer, after the Islamic festivities, reflects the unity, spirituality and identity of the Dagbon people.
It is a beautiful blend of Islamic and traditional practices, showcasing the cultural richness and diversity of our heritage.”
He further explained that the act of carrying the smaller gods highlights the traditional dimension of celebrating Eid-ul-Adha in Dagbon.
“The celebration fosters social cohesion and cultural exchange.
It is also a way for the Overlord to share greetings and love with his subjects.
This kind of traditional prayer is reserved solely for the Overlord. His chiefs may join in but they are not permitted to perform it independently.
“It also roots and connects the festival to the ancestral traditions of the land," Mr Mutala added.
He, therefore, admonished the public to visit Dagbon each year to witness the rich traditions and culture displayed, adding, “Rather than viewing it as incompatible with religion, we should appreciate and promote our cultural practices.
They are an essential part of our identity."
