Funeral rites – drink, eat and be mournful

Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani
03 April 2025, The Tablet

Family members wear matching lace cloth at a funeral in Oshogbo, Osun State, Nigeria.

Creative Commons / Supreme Lace

Historically, these traditions were seen as essential for ensuring a smooth passage to the afterlife, rooted in the belief that a proper send-off was crucial for a peaceful and honourable transition. However, in recent times, elaborate funerals have become a subject of debate.

Spanning several days, funerals are marked by feasting, music, dance and lavish displays of wealth

Get Instant Access

Continue Reading

Register for free to read this article in full

Subscribe for unlimited access

From just £37.50 quarterly

  Print copy of The Tablet delivered directly to your door.
  Complete access to all Tablet website content including all premium content.
  Access to the weekly digital copy of The Tablet.
  Full access to The Tablet’s archive – over 180 years of back issues.

Already a subscriber? Login

Article end