Nigerians rock colourful “aso-ebi” at Presidential Inauguration

The venue of the Presidential Inauguration ceremony on Monday in Abuja became a ground for the display of colourful “aso-ebi” by friends and relatives of the President and his Vice.

It was reported that different groups from different parts of the country, adorned themselves in beautifully made fabrics to add life to the event.

Mrs Kemi Babalola, who was part of one of the aso-ebi groups, said it was a sign of solidarity for the new president and the vice president.

She said the dress code, which is common in the South Western part of Nigeria, was an age long practice that had reinvented itself over the years.

“We chose a dress code to identify with the new administration.

“It is our way of saying we are in support of President Tinubu’s emergence and I believe it is same with the other aso-ebi groups here today,” she said.

Mr Idris Abdullahi, an All Progressives Congress (APC) member, who was also adorned in a particular dress code said “using uniform for any event adds colour.”

It was reported that aso-ebi is a Yoruba word that connotes family cloth.

It has, however, gone beyond being used by family members to friends and well wishers and it can be used during gatherings including weddings and funerals.

The practice, which was common among the Yoruba speaking people in Nigeria, has gained prominence in other parts of the country.

It was reported that aso-ebi can be made from very cheap fabrics or very expensive ones depending on the class of persons, occasion or place.