In a discussion that has sparked cultural insights and debates following the death of Junior Pope, a Nigerian man has shed light on the traditional customs surrounding the burial of individuals who meet their demise near rivers.
In a live video session on Instagram, the man disclosed that families of individuals who perish near rivers are typically burdened with a significant financial obligation, ranging from N30 to N40 million, to conduct traditional rites for the deceased. These rites are aimed at ensuring that the departed can be laid to rest away from the riverbank, in accordance with local customs.Explaining the rationale behind this tradition, the man elaborated that when someone drowns in water, the river spirits lay a claim over the body. Thus, if the family chooses to bury the deceased elsewhere, they risk facing perceived consequences associated with defying the natural order.
Regardless the possibility of appeasing the river spirits through customary rituals, the man cautioned that such measures do not guarantee immunity from potential risks or consequences.
According to an eyewitness present at the scene of Jnr Pope’s accident, it was confirmed that the actor’s family was aware of the customs but opted against burying him near the river.
Apparently, the river people did not confront the family or attempt to reclaim the body forcefully; instead, they simply informed them of the potential repercussions of their decision.
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