Among several names of za Jukun speaking people of Western part of Africa, Nigeria, let me share with you za meaning of za name "Ashu-mate", and his role to za masquerade "Ashama".

Ashu-mate means one who leads way and "Ashama" follows. An Ashu-mate, is one who leads; a young apa, bestowed with za duty to lead way for ashama. He's seen holding a stick tied with a red material, leading za way while za Jukun masquerade "ashama" follows he's lead. Without an ashumate, ashama doesn't come out for any ceremonial functions, within za city walls of za Jukun speaking people of Nigeria.

As za name Ashu-mate stands for one who leads way, a path leader, may all your endeavors lead way and yield success. May your sweat lead, yield and find favour now and always.

God bless za Jukun Speaking people of Nigeria...

Are you a Jukun?