CULTURAL OVERVIEW:
TRADITIONAL FESTIVALS:
Oredo LGA is steeped in cultural heritage and is known for its traditional festivals. The Igue Festival is one of the most prominent cultural events celebrated by the people of Benin, showcasing the Benin Kingdom's rich history and culture.
HISTORICAL MONUMENTS AND SITES:
Oredo Municipal Council has a rich cultural heritage dating back to the 11th Century. The culture is as rich and diverse as its landscape. The LGA is home to several historical sites, including the Benin National Museum, Igun Street (famous for bronze casting), and the Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Edo State Government House, The Edo State House of Assembly, the Benin Airport, Central Bank of Nigeria, Petroleum Development Company, Oredo gas plant, Golf Course and the Ogba National Zoo and Park. These sites offer insights into the rich history and heritage of the Benin Kingdom. The uniqueness of the culture acts as a strong force which attracts foreign tourists to Oredo Local Government
LANGUAGE AND TRADITIONS:
Oredo is a cosmopolitan melting pot of diverse ethnic groups. Benin language is predominantly spoken alongside pigin English. Other ethnic groups in the Local Government are: The Esan, Afemai, Urhobos, Isokos, Ijaws, Itsekiris, Igbos, Yoruba, Hausas etc.The dominant language in Oredo LGA is Edo, reflecting the heritage of the Edo people. The people have preserved their unique traditions, music, dance, and attire, reflecting their identity and pride in their cultural roots. Generally, Oredo indigenes are peace loving and very hospitable, and this explains the presence of different ethnic groups residing and doing business in Oredo Local Government Area.
Benin City, the Capital of Oredo Local Government Area is the seat of the Benin Monarch, the Oba of Benin. Although, there are Dukedoms, quarters and streets in Oredo, the Oba of Benin, Omo ‘N’ Oba ‘N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II is the head of the traditional institution with Dukes/Enigies, Chiefs, Edionweres, okeavbo and okiaidun as subordinate traditional rulers for administrative purposes.
RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY:
Oredo LGA is home to people of diverse religious beliefs, including Christianity, Islam, and traditional African religions. They all religiously cohabitate in peace in the local government. This coexistence of various religions contributes to the cultural mosaic of the area.
SECURITY
The security architecture of Oredo is Multi faceted and is made up of a combined efforts of security Agencies (Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Army, State Security Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Vigilante and Hunter Groups). Strengthening of security apparatus and the hospitality of the people provides for adequate security of lives and property. Oredo Local Government Area, with its blend of economic activities and cultural richness, stands as a testament to the heritage and resilience of its people. As the LGA continues to evolve and grow, preserving its traditions and embracing modern economic opportunities will be key to its future prosperity.