WARRI, DELTA STATE – The streets of Ugbori Community in Warri South Local Government Area pulsated with the rhythm of drums and the vibrant colours of tradition as Osantiton Cultural Society celebrated its 20th Anniversary.
Held from Tuesday, December 30, 2025, to Thursday, January 1, 2026, the three-day extravaganza was a testament to two decades of resilience, unity, and cultural pride. Under the banner “20 Years of Rhythm! 20 Years of Heritage!! 20 Years of Identity!!!,” the society reaffirmed its status as a living custodian of the Itsekiri soul.
A Journey of Metamorphosis: History of the Society
The story of Osantiton is one of evolution and endurance. What began twenty years ago as a humble Omoko dance troupe operating between Ode-Itsekiri and Ugbori, has grown into a formidable institution.
Over the years, the group metamorphosed into the “Agura Ugbori ee run Cultural Society,” before finally adopting its current identity as the Osantiton Cultural Society. Today, it stands as a youth-centred organisation dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of Ugbori community. Through masquerade performances, drumbeats, dance steps, and Itsekiri fashion, Osantiton has successfully bridged the gap between the past and the future, proving that culture remains alive only when it is lived.
Event Highlights: Three Days of Culture
The anniversary celebration was a grand display of masquerades (Umale) and inter-society camaraderie, with various cultural groups visiting to support Osantiton cultural society.
Day 1: Tuesday, December 30, 2025 The festivities kicked off with high energy as the society deployed three distinct masquerades: Ipi, Ajamala, and Oki.
- Invited Guest Societies: Kantu Youth Forum, Okere Daughters, Agura-Iwere Cultural Society, and Ukuntosan Cultural Society.
Day 2: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 On New Year’s Eve, the cultural display intensified with the appearance of the Obira, Ogienuranran, and Osimini (alias Olebino) masquerades.
- Invited Guest Societies: Otu-Oma Iwere Cultural Society, Otu-Utienyin-Oma Cultural Society, Uge-ene-ete Cultural Society, and Osan-Iwere Cultural Society.
Day 3: Thursday, January 1, 2026 The grand finale on New Year’s Day featured a spectacular outing by the Udele, Ogbolomor, and Olekun (also known as Oluwengbe) masquerades, bringing the celebration to a climactic close.
- Invited Guest Societies: Otu-Oma Ologbara Cultural Society, Otu-Oma Odokun Cultural Society, and Aturuntse Cultural Society.
A Wonderful Journey
The 20th Anniversary of Osantiton Cultural Society was not just a celebration of longevity, but a bold statement of identity. For two decades, the society has stood the test of time, surviving generations while breathing life into tradition. As the drums went silent on January 1st, the message remained loud and clear: Osantiton is proudly keeping the traditions of Itsekiri alive at Ugbori community for the next generation.
