Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The Akata music of the Ibibio people holds a significant cultural and social position within the community, particularly exemplified by the Akata Cultural Group in Adadia, Uruan Local Government Area. This study delves into the practices and functions of Akata music, exploring its historical roots, musical components, and its role in the cultural life of the Ibibio people. Through a case study approach focusing on the Akata Cultural Group, this research aims to unravel the intricacies of Akata music, shedding light on its evolution, performance contexts, and the meanings attached to its lyrics and melodies. The research employs a combination of ethnographic methods, including participant observation, interviews with key members of the Akata Cultural Group, and analysis of audiovisual recordings of performances. By immersing in the cultural milieu of Adadia and engaging with members of the community, this study seeks to capture the essence of Akata music and its significance in the lives of the Ibibio people. The findings highlight the multifaceted functions of Akata music, ranging from its role in traditional ceremonies and rituals to its use in contemporary social gatherings and entertainment events. The musical components of Akata music, such as rhythmic patterns, instrumentation, vocal styles, and dance movements, are examined in detail to provide a comprehensive understanding of its sonic characteristics. Furthermore, the study investigates the lyrical content of Akata songs, exploring themes of history, folklore, social commentary, and cultural identity embedded in the music. Through thematic analysis, the research uncovers the underlying messages communicated through Akata lyrics and the ways in which they resonate with the experiences and values of the Ibibio people. Moreover, this research delves into the organizational structure of the Akata Cultural Group, examining its leadership dynamics, membership criteria, and the processes involved in the transmission of musical knowledge and performance practices. By illuminating the inner workings of the group, the study elucidates the mechanisms through which Akata music is preserved, passed down through generations, and adapted to changing societal contexts. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper appreciation of the rich musical heritage of the Ibibio people, highlighting the enduring cultural significance of Akata music in contemporary times.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

1.1     Background of the Study

Ibibio is the core ethnic group in what is now known as Akwa Ibom State. The Ibibio are believed to be of the Bantu stock. Their language is Ibibio. They have two main seasons in a year: the dry season and rainy season. Their traditional occupations include farming, hunting, carving raffia works, local art and craft as well as other in door games.

The Ibibio are long religious. They worship the Supreme Being (Abasi Ibom) and they believe in life after death (reincarnation) and spiritism. Their minor deities are Ekpo, Ndem, Ibok, etc. They rely on numerous traditional ceremonies like new yam festival, traditional marriage (Usọrọ Ndọ), harvest festival (usọrọ Idọk) and so on, for spiritual rejuvenation. They also believe in superstition, divination, rituals, myths, oracles, and a lot more.

The Ibibio have one of the most ancient writings “Nsibidi”. The Ibibio, according to Ukpong (2001),“generally have a low lying topography with a few hills around Itu in the North and Oban in the East, Ukpong also states that Ibibio is the largest ethnic group in Nigeria after Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo.

The Ibibio are governed by traditional institutions like Ekpe, Idiong, Akata, etc. These groups use music as one of their media of communication, and historical store house. Ibibio songs serve as historical documents and as a means of communication (Udo, 1983). This simply explains that Akwa Ibom State is a state with abundant cultural heritage.

In Akwa Ibom State, there are many cultural groups. There are about two or more of such groups in each of the local government areas. Some of these groups are gender-related; that is, some of them are purely male cultural groups and some are purely for women only. Among the male dominated groups include Akata cultural group or society. It is a secret society, and one way of identifying it is through its masquerade play, in which all the initiate members participate.

Akata is perhaps one of the widely accepted Ibibio cultural groups in Akwa Ibom State. It could be best described as a socio-cultural organisation whose functions are to perform songs of social control mostly at night and reported social misbehaviours with a view to sanitising the society, among others. Traditional Akata is performed only at night by members who are all male as being practised in Adadia in Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.



1.2     Problem of the Study

  Music and dance are the fabric of every social activity of the Ibibio. Ibibio also believe in decent living, that is, not engaging in acts that tarnish her image and reputation. However, these are seriously threatened by rapid social change, especially their values, attitudes, ideas, beliefs, technology, and institutions. These changes, as a result of Western education, technological development, and alien musical cultures pose serious threat on the survival of Akata traditional music and performance. Hence, Akata music needs to be conserved through documentation. Moreso, for Akata music to survive the changing times, it must change, but in changing, it must retain elements of its essence so that it is not mistakably perceived otherwise. Thus, this study was to investigate and document Akata and its music.



1.3     Purpose of the Study

  The study was primarily designed to investigate and document the Akata music of the Adiadia people of Uruan Local Government Area. Aside this, the specific purposes set for the study include:



1.4     Significance of the Study

This study will be of significant value in the following ways:



1.5     Research Questions



1.6     Scope of the Study

  This study was on Akata cultural group in Adadia, Uruan Local Government Area. It examined the performance practices and songs used by this group.