By: Muhammed Faisal Mustapha/Nii Okpoti Odamtten
The rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against the shores of Nungua echoed with tradition and anticipation on Thursday, June 25, 2026, as the Nungua Mantse, Oboade Notse King Prof. Odaifio Welentsi III, joined his elders and residents of the Nungua Traditional Area at the seaside to witness and observe the revered Nsho Bulemo rites, a significant traditional ceremony that marks the preparations for this year’s Kplejoo Festival.
The sacred occasion witnessed the return of selected fishermen who had ventured into the deep sea on a special customary mission to catch the sacred fish that plays a vital role in the observance of the Kplejoo Festival.
Upon their return, the sacred fish was first presented to the Nungua Mantse at the beach. It was then taken into a shrine at the beach, where the necessary customary rites were performed before being conveyed to the Gborbu Shrine for preservation until it is used in the preparation of kpokpoi during the Kplejoo Festival.
The Nungua Mantse observed the rites alongside his elders to ensure that every customary procedure was carried out according to tradition. The ceremony also drew traditional authorities, priests, priestesses and members of the community who gathered to witness one of the most sacred customs of the Nungua people.
Narrating the history and significance of the Nsho Bulemo rites, Oboade Notse King Prof. Odaifio Welentsi III and his elders explained that the ceremony has been handed down through generations and remains an important aspect of Nungua’s cultural heritage.
They emphasized that the people of Nungua celebrate the Kplejoo Festival, not the Homowo Festival, and that the Nsho Bulemo rites are among the sacred customary observances leading to the annual Kplejoo celebration.
Speaking after the successful completion of the ceremony, the Nungua Mantse expressed gratitude to the chiefs, elders and traditional functionaries for faithfully preserving the customs and traditions inherited from their ancestors.
According to him, the Nsho Bulemo rites have remained authentic over the years because each generation has remained committed to observing them in accordance with tradition.
He commended everyone who played a role in ensuring the successful performance of the rites and urged the youth to embrace and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Nungua for future generations.