The Ember Months Mystery In Nigeria
The term “ember” refers to a small, glowing piece of coal or wood, often associated with the dying embers of a fire.
But in Nigeria, the phrase “ember months” has taken on a different meaning. It is a coinnage from the last four months of the year – September, October, November, and December – which share a similar sound.
Beyond this rhyming phenomenon amd musical undertone, the ember months have become synonymous with certain myths and perceptions in the Nigerian context.
These months are often viewed with a sense of fear as many believe they bring an increased risk of accidents, illnesses, deaths among others. However, a closer examination reveals that this notion may be more of a cultural belief than a factual reality.
In this article, we shall delve into the possible reasons behind the mystery surrounding the ember months and explore whether there is any truth to the perceived dangers associated with them.
There is the widespread belief that the ember months are ominous and evil, but there is no evidence to support the claim that these months are inherently more dangerous than others.
In fact, data from various sources, including the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), suggests that accidents, illnesses, and deaths occur throughout the year, with no significant spike during the ember months.
One such example was the massive explosion that rocked Ibadan, Oyo State capital early January, 2024 causing the death of five people with seventy-seven others sustaining varying degrees of injury.
Another incident of mass killing occured in June in the town of Gwoza, Borno state after a suicide bomber unleashed terror at a wedding ceremony leaving 18 people dead.
Fifteen people died while 24 others were injured in an arson attack that happened in May, in Kano state when a 38-year-old man Shafi’u Abubakar, launched an attack on muslim worshippers over inheritance disagreement.
Also in May, four people, including a mother and her two children, died in an accident in Odeomu, Osun State.The accidentn was attribbuted to over speeding.
And in a recent incident, four people died with 20 others sustaining injuries in a multiple road crash that occurred at Ikeji-Arakeji along Osun/Ondo road in Ori-Ade Local Government Area of the State.
These are just few of incidences that happened in the cause of the year. These incidences are a testament that tragic occurences are not peculiar to “ember months” alone. As a matter fact, a lot happened during the other months that are downplayed, making the incidences of the ember months more pronounced. This is just beacuse the minds of Nigerian had been wired that tragic occurrences happen at that point in time.
One possible explanation for the perceived increase in incidents during the ember months is the rise in human activity and travel during this period. As the year draws to a close, many people rush to complete unfinished tasks, travel for holidays, and engage in festive celebrations, leading to increased exposure to risks. However, this does not necessarily mean that the months themselves are cursed or dangerous.
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Another factor contributing to the mystery of the ember months is the psychological phenomenon of confirmation bias. People tend to remember and give more attention to incidents that occur during this period, while ignoring or downplaying similar events that happen at other times of the year. Shoukd we say the lives of people that had been lost to accidents earlier in the year do not matter or they are not valued?
This selective perception reinforce the belief that the ember months are uniquely hazardous.
Furthermore, the ember months coincide with the end of the year, a time when people reflect on their accomplishments and shortcomings. This introspection can lead to a sense of urgency and desperation, causing individuals to take unnecessary risks and make hasty decisions, which may contribute to the perceived increase in incidents.
It’s also important to note that Nigeria’s cultural and religious landscape plays a significant role in shaping beliefs and perceptions around the ember months. Traditional beliefs and superstitions, such as the idea that the year’s fortunes are determined during this period, can influence people’s attitudes and behaviors, perpetuating the mystery of the ember months.
While the ember months may be associated with certain myths and perceptions, there is no concrete evidence to support the claim that they are inherently more dangerous than other months. By understanding the psychological, cultural, and environmental factors that contribute to this phenomenon, we can work to dispel the myths and focus on promoting safety and well-being throughout the year.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
