The Broom as a Symbol of Authority and Unity in Ugep Culture

By Okoi Obono-Obla 

The Broom as a Symbol of Authority and Unity in Ugep Culture

Introduction
Ugep, the headquarters of Yakurr Local Government Area in Cross River State, Nigeria, is more than just a growing city. Recognized historically as one of the Urban County Councils in the old Eastern Region under the 1959 Local Government Law, Ugep today stands as the second largest city in Cross River after Calabar. With a projected population of about 200,276 in 2026, it blends modern urban development with deep-rooted traditions, making it a unique cultural hub.

This essay explores one of the most distinctive aspects of Ugep’s heritage — the symbolism of the broom in Yakurr culture — and how it reflects authority, unity, and resilience among the people.

An imprudent young man who saw my post with the picture of Obol Lopon of Ugep and Paramount Ruler of Yakurr Local Government Area, Obol Ofem Ubanagha Eteng, holding a finely crafted bundle of broom two days ago made an impolite and disrespectful comment. His remark, “Is he a member of the APC, why the broom?” revealed ignorance and insensitivity to Nigeria’s cultural diversity. I could not hold my peace and had to rebuke him for his lack of grace.

I have therefore decided to write this essay to explain why some categories of traditional rulers among the people of Ugep in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State hold a finely bundled broom as part of their ceremonial dress code.

The Broom as a Staff of Office
In Ugep culture, the broom is used as a staff of office by chiefs. During ceremonial occasions, the Obol Lopon and his council of Heads of Matriclans (Beinahs) go on procession holding a well-crafted broomstick, waving it majestically.

The 22 Matriclans of Ugep
Ugep has 22 matriclans, namely:

1. Yabọl
2. Yakunkunẹbọl
3. Yakpelebọl
4. Yawambọl
5. Yakpambọl
6. Yajeni
7. Yasenibọl
8. Yakọibọl
9. Yabọlletete
10. Yatebe
11. Yapuni
12. Yajokpọli
13. Yabayẹ
14. Yabongọ
15. Yanali
16. Yayọọ
17. Yakumikọ
18. Yabọng
19. Yakamafẹ
20. Yatiyomọ
21. Yakangkang
22. Yayali

What is a Matriclan?
A matriclan is a social group traced through maternal lineage. In Ugep, membership of a matriclan is inherited from the mother, and each clan has its own identity, traditions, and leadership. The Beinahs (Heads of Matriclans) form part of the council that supports the Obol Lopon in governance and ceremonial duties.

The Royal Matriclan (Leboljima)
The Obol Lopon of Ugep is the Head (Priest) of the Yabọl, Yakunkunẹbọl, and Yakpelebọl matriclans (numbers 1, 2, and 3 in the list above). Collectively, these three are known as Leboljima, the Royal Matriclan. Any person from any of these three matriclans is eligible to become the Obol Lopon of Ugep when the seat becomes vacant upon the death of the incumbent.

Symbolism of the Broom
The broom is one of the items presented to someone honored with a chieftaincy title or investiture as Obol or Beinah, to be used on ceremonial occasions.

– Practical Use: Soft brooms are used for sweeping cobwebs and spiders, while hard brooms are for rougher tasks like sweeping dirt or smoothing wet concrete.
– Symbolic Meaning: Across cultures, brooms symbolize good luck, sweeping away misfortune, and protection against evil. Among the Yakurr people, the broom signifies royalty, authority, strength, and unity.
– Resilience: A broom is sturdy and resilient. When bundled together, it cannot be easily broken, symbolizing the unity and strength of the people.
– Spiritual Value: In Ugep, the broom holds spiritual significance, representing cleanliness, the sweeping away of evil spirits, and past wrongs.
– Marriage Rituals: During marriage ceremonies, couples may be made to jump over the broom, symbolizing a new beginning. This practice is also found among African-American communities in the United States.

Conclusion
Ugep is not only a growing urban center but also a cultural hub whose traditions continue to command respect. The broom in Ugep tradition is far more than a household tool. It is a sacred emblem of authority, unity, resilience, and spiritual cleansing. To dismiss it as a mere political symbol is to misunderstand and disrespect the rich cultural heritage of the Yakurr people.