1. Language– The Ebira people speak the Ebira language, one of Nigeria’s many indigenous languages. It has 19 consonant sounds and at least 9 vowel sounds.
2. Greeting– A common way the Ebira people greet each other is *”Wao Wadahi?”*, which means *”How are you?”*
3. Where They Live– The Ebira people mainly live in Kogi State, especially in Okene, Okehi, Adavi, and Ajaokuta. Some also live in Nasarawa, Edo, and the Federal Capital Territory.
4. Their History – The Ebira people originally came from the Kwararafa kingdom and later migrated to places like Opanda, Koton-Karifi, Okene, and Igara (Edo State).
5. Name Change – The Ebira people were once called “Igbirra,” but in 1974, the official spelling changed to “Ebira.”
6. Farming People – Most Ebira people are farmers, growing crops like yam, cassava, maize, and vegetables.
7. Popular Dishes– The Ebira are known for *Apapa*, a bean-based dish similar to Moi Moi, but with the bean coat left on for more nutrition.
8. Marriage Tradition – In traditional Ebira weddings, a groom’s family presents gifts like yam tubers, dried fish, palm oil, and salt to the bride’s family in a ceremony called *Isa Ewere.*
9. Ekuechi Festival– One of the biggest Ebira festivals is the Ekuechi festival, where masquerades perform all night to mark the end of the year and welcome spirits of ancestors.
10. Spiritual Beliefs – Traditionally, the Ebira people believe in Hinegba (a supreme deity) and ancestral spirits, though many have now embraced Islam and Christianity.
11. Clans and Totems – The Ebira have different clans, each with its own totem, such as lions, crocodiles, and pythons, which are respected and not harmed.
12. Notable People– Famous Ebira personalities include Nollywood actresses Mercy Johnson and Halima Abubakar.
13. Language Decline– Younger generations are speaking less Ebira, which is putting the language at risk of disappearing over time.