Authored By Abdul Karim Turay
Freetown, Sierra Leone – January 5, 2016- The Poro Society in Sierra Leone has long been a mysterious and feared institution, known for its initiation rituals that transform young men into powerful and respected members of their communities. However, the initiation process is shrouded in secrecy and often associated with violence and brutality. In recent times, men above 30 years have been running for their lives to avoid being initiated into the society, fearing the physical and mental challenges that come with it.
The initiation process typically begins with the selection of young men who are deemed worthy of joining the society. These men are chosen based on their strength, courage, and willingness to follow the society’s rules and traditions. Once selected, the initiates are taken to a secluded location where they are subjected to a series of physical and mental challenges designed to test their resolve and endurance.
The first stage of the initiation process involves the initiates being forced to eat a variety of foods that are considered taboo by their communities. These foods include bush meat such as snake, monkey, and other exotic animals that are believed to possess magical powers. The initiates are also forced to drink a special potion that is said to enhance their strength and vitality.
The second stage of the initiation process involves the initiates being subjected to physical challenges such as running through the jungle, climbing trees, and performing other physically demanding tasks. These challenges are designed to test the initiates’ strength, agility, and endurance.
The final stage of the initiation process involves the initiates being forced to participate in a series of rituals and ceremonies that are designed to transform them into full-fledged members of the society. These rituals include the use of magic and sorcery, and are often accompanied by loud music and dancing.
The initiation process is said to be extremely painful and traumatic for the initiates, and many men who have undergone the process report feeling a deep sense of fear and respect for the society. The society is known for its power and influence, and many men feel that they have to join in order to gain respect and status in their communities.
However, the initiation process is not without its risks. Many men who have undergone the process report experiencing strange and terrifying visions, and some even report being possessed by the spirits of the animals they have eaten. The society is also known for its brutal treatment of initiates who fail to complete the initiation process, and many men report being beaten, tortured, or even killed for not meeting the society’s expectations.
Despite the risks and challenges involved, many men in Sierra Leone feel that joining the Poro Society is essential for their social, political, and economic advancement. The society is known for its power and influence, and many men feel that they have to join in order to gain respect and status in their communities.
The fear of the Poro Society’s initiation process has led many men above 30 years to flee their homes and communities, seeking refuge in urban areas where they can avoid the society’s reach. The situation has become so dire that many men are now willing to risk their lives to escape the society’s clutches.
The Poro Society’s initiation process is a testament to the power and influence it holds over the lives of many men in Sierra Leone. While the society is known for its positive contributions to the community, its initiation process is a source of fear and trauma for many men who are forced to undergo it.
