ÀLÁBÀLÚ is a masquerade from Ẹ̀fọ̀n-Aláayè in Èkìtì state, Nigeria. It's not your typical kind of masquerade, it's a very unique masquerade with a unique style. The head is shaped like a cats, the cloak it wears is accessorised with cowries, sea shells, and some other traditional ornaments.
After the celebration, the outfit is spread under the sun for a while and kept for another three years. They do not wash it and that makes it stink. It aslo carries a staff that looks like a spare. It throws it at people just for fun, but they say it's mostly when he is angry/frustrated.
It comes out every three years and he is celebrated by indigenes and visitors. ÀLÁBÀLÚ is passed down from generation to generation. There's a particular song they sing for him to fuel his pride. It's a fun masquerade to watch.
