The Idoma people are uniquely identified by their red and black native dress culture called Lli k’idoma which they proudly adorn.
This unique fabric has a place of pride in the wardrobe of an average Idoma. It is also called “Apa” in many parts of Idomaland or Edema among the Edumoga people, it is by default the ethnic dress code for epoch and grand occasions. When worn as a royal garb, the attire is complemented with beads and horsetails.
Though, the time of its emergence could not be properly ascertained—some argue that the heritage is as old as the existence of the Idoma themselves who are believed to have migrated from the legendary Kwararafa kingdom centuries ago. History however, indicates that the traditional fabric dates back to the reign of Och’Idoma Abraham Ajene Okpabi, the second paramount ruler of the Idoma kingdom, or even earlier, as Idu, the progenitor of Idoma, who according to oral tradition, engaged in handloom clothing at the time blacksmithing flourished among the Igala, Ebira and Igbo-speaking neighbours of Idoma.
To the Idoma, this traditional fabric, defined by bold stripes of red and black, is a symbol of unity—red, for strength and resilience of the people, who proved overwhelming for rival tribes or races that sought to displace the Idoma from the Benue basin where they settled. The colour black is a reference to the agrarian nature of the people who depended on the earth for many purposes.
Today, this heritage has been well preserved. Proud sons and daughters of Idoma are making bold statements with lli K’ Idoma, to the point where the fabric is gaining recognition around the world as an emblem of the Benue tribe.
Beyond its cultural significance, the Idoma attire has become part of everyday fashion, a fabric for fashionable clothing, including wrappers, gowns, skirts, blouses, kaftan, and trousers. lli K’ Idoma is now worn in many forms, for many occasions and at any time of the day. Today, lli K’Idoma is one of a handful of fabrics that have found global appeal. Though aboriginal to Idoma, but no longer limited to only the Idoma people. It has spread beyond the realms of Idomaland to the rest of Nigeria.
The Idoma culture is one of the most fascinating cultures in Nigeria. Exceptionally proud of their native heritage, preserved many of their ancestors’ traditions, and a number of them present in their mixture of elaborate traditional tales, artistic expressions, music and varied culture elements.
The Idoma is the second largest group in Benue state and the word “IDOMA” means God has done it.
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