Check out 5 Cultural Rules Of The Yorubas

The Yorubas are among the major ethnic groups in Nigeria. They’re mainly present in the South-Western area of the country. They’re popular for 2 things-education and culture. In cases like this, we should concentrate on the latter which will be culture.

Although virtually all ethnic groups in Nigeria are culturally conscious, that of the Yorubas is really a notch higher. Hence as a traveller to states such as for example Osun, Lagos, Ondo, Ogun, Oyo and Ekiti; you’re expected to understand or be familiar with some cultural rules that you simply cannot find in a book. You’re taught from your own childhood. So as never to fall foul of those unwritten cultural rules, Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency shares several of those rules.

Greeting is a must

It is an ‘abomination’ if you walk past a Yoruba man or woman without greeting. It is even worse when you know them and you still do not greet. They will perceive you as uncultured, disrespectful and lacking home training.

Give elders items with your left hand

You must have observed that some people frown their faces or do not accept an item from the giver if you offer it with your left hand. This is one of the ways to indirectly ‘offend’ a Yoruba person. Even among your peers, you should not give items with your left hand. Always use your right hand.

Don’t call your sister/brother by their name

For the Yorubas, even if the age difference is just a year, you must add a prefix like aunt or uncle. It is even more unacceptable if you call someone way older than you by their name. The person will just ignore or be lackadaisical.

Leave when parents have a visitor (s)

If you do not want to get into trouble with your parents especially your mum, you should leave when they have visitors. They do not want you to eavesdrop. If you decide to stay, the reward is a dirty slap from your mum!

Always eat your meat last

We do not know the source of this rule but when dining with a Yoruba family, you should always eat your meat last.