Aso-ebi Custom among the Yoruba People of Southwest Nigeria: An Assessment of Trend, Challenges and Prospects

Abstract

The study investigated the trend, challenges and prospects of Aso-Ebi practice among the Yoruba people of Southwest Nigeria. The major objective of the study was to compare the benefits of the phenomenon with the challenges associated with it. This is to reach a cogent premise for upholding or discouraging the practice. The methodology followed a survey research design that involved generating data from individuals who patronize Aso-Ebi in Osun and Oyo States. Primary data sources came from a well-designed questionnaire which was administered to 270 respondents. The result findings revealed that: (i) Distress arising from the financial burden emanating from incessant purchase of Aso-Ebi fabrics (ii) Distress caused by unhealthy flamboyant competition among Aso-Ebi patrons, and (iii) Distress caused by compromising personal taste and choice for chosen Aso-Ebi fabrics are all significant challenges allied with the phenomenon. On the other hand, (i) Distress caused by the suspension of the use of personal clothes (ii) Distress caused by stocking loads of Aso- Ebi fabrics in personal wardrobes are found not to be significant. The study also found that the benefits associated with the practice outweigh the challenges therein. Consequently, it was recommended in the study that: (i) the practice of Aso-Ebi should be upheld and encouraged (ii) individuals, organizations and the Nigerian government at all levels should leverage on its potentials as a panacea for capacity building and economic growth (iii) it should be harnessed as an instrument for fostering social cohesion in Nigeria.