TOURISTS SHY AWAY FROM NIGERIA'S OSUN FESTIVAL OVER EBOLA FEARS

Picture courtesy Seun Sanni

Over one thousand Nigerians gathered at the sacred forest in the south-western part of the country for the annual celebration of the Osun river goddess.
The yearly event which attracts thousands of tourists from all walks of life is held in honour of Osho-Igbo, the river goddess who it is believed came to the rescue of people faced with infertility, hunger and poverty.
Unlike previous years which is usually marked by large influx of tourists from all over the world, this year's peace and fertility festival has seen none owing to fear of the Ebola virus.
Nigeria has now recorded 17 cases of Ebola virus disease since the Liberian man brought it into the country on July 20.
The number of deaths remain at six.
The Osun state government had announced days before the festivities kicked off that a low key celebration with no foreigners allowed is necessary in order to avoid the outbreak of the virus in the state.
Despite the fear of the Ebola virus spreading, locals turned up in colourful attires for the special occasion.
The mood was joyous although everyone tried to avoid unnecessary contact with the next person.
Hundreds of devotees besieged the Osun river to offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and pray for their different needs to be met while traditional rites were carried out in a shrine close to the river bank.
Businesses also suffered as a result of the poor turnout.
Hotels in the town experienced a setback owing to the restriction placed on foreigners.
Many are hopeful that next year's festival will see a return of the event to its former self of attracting visitors in a bid to boost the tourism industry.

Ebola Fears Deter Tourists From Visiting Nigeria's Osun Festival