Oshodi street boys re-channel soccer fanaticism at Jersey Carnival

A YOUTH GROUP on Lagos Island, popularly known as Isale Eko, Ajia Ijesha Boys’ Club, recently staged its second edition of Jersey Carnival. With the area devoid of the buzz of traders and shoppers due to the public holiday declared by the Federal Government to mark Democracy Day, it was the perfect moment for residents and Isale Eko boys to unwind. This, they did, to the fullest. The scene of action for the Jersey Carnival was Oshodi Street, but it wasn’t until sunset before the youths took over the carved-out park at the entrance of the street known as the Oshodi Recreational Centre. Along the long stretch of the street, it was fun time for both the young and the old. Children gathered to play pranks and chase each other while the men sat in groups bare-chested to play card games, Ayo and Ludo. Some others gathered in front of an eatery anxiously waiting for a bowl of fresh-hot pounded yam, which was being prepared by three women simultaneosly in a rhythmic dance movement. By sunset, the big moment arrived and residents all came out to the roadside to absorb the scenic sight of youths trooping out in their preferred jerseys in different colours and throwing jives at friends adorning jerseys of opposing clubs and countries. According to the organizers, which included The Guardian, Jersey Carnival, was a novel way of channeling soccer fanaticism among football followers into productive use by celebrating Democracy Day in a different way to foster patriotism and national unity among the youth. Ajia Ijesha boys and youths of neighbouring streets laid siege on Oshodi Street into the early hours of the morning under a bright clear moonlight donning football jerseys, mufflers, flags, banners and wristbands of the Super Eagles, Brazil, and other countries and popular club sides. Attractions included stage performances, dance competitions and comedians, who were out to crack some peoples’ ribs with jaw-shattering jokes. After the awards’ contest, Oluwakemi Disu, emerged the best-kitted fan. Nigeria was the most represented country jersey and Manchester United emerged the most represented club jersey.