Last week marked the 7th edition of Lagos Comic Con. The event featured both African and international comics, games, animations films, and books. (As well as countless Black Panther Cosplays).
For many of us in the diaspora, this may be the first time hearing of a Nigerian based Comic convention. Events like the Lagos Comic Con gives African creatives an opportunity to showcase their talent and work. It also serves to inspire and connect like-minded people.
06/02/2018 – Kendrick Lamar releases the video to his latest single “All the stars” and it’s riddled with Igbo symbols.
Most Igbo people will instantly be able to recognise the very familiar Igbo red cap (fez). The “red cap” in Igboland is currently a symbol of authority, culture and tradition.
Red caps appear at 0:25
Igbo red cap variants
The golden graphical symbols displayed in the background as Kendrick walks through the room are heavily reminiscent of the Igbo/Ekpe Ukara cloth.
Appears @3:01 in the All the Stars music video starring Kendrick Lamar and Sza.
Ekpe men wearing Ukara cloth
Ukara Cloth
The Ekpe (leopard) society was a secret society present in southeastern Nigeria and western Cameroon among the Ejagham, Efik-Ibibio and Igbo ethnic groups. The group also wrote using a pictographic writing script called the Nsibidi. This is often featured on many Ukara cloth patterns.
The Ekpe society would use ritual propitiation of forest spirits to ensure the well-being of the community and enforce laws.
For many of us in the diaspora, this may be the first time hearing of a Nigerian based Comic convention. Events like the Lagos Comic Con gives African creatives an opportunity to showcase their talent and work. It also serves to inspire and connect like-minded people.
