Some of the dances were highly symbolic. One paid tribute to the Ogoni's long history as fishermen. Another represented the death of Ken and other innocent Ogonis through a performance by a dancer dressed in headgear displaying two sculls . This morning we heard reports that Barine was in Port Harcourt, but of course we did not know where. While I am sure many Nigerians would welcome the luxury of a phone, they seem to get along fine without one.
Communication is through word of mouth and friend to friend.
Finally, this afternoon Barine did indeed arrive in Bane. We had camped out there all day to make sure we captured the big moment of her arrival. She climbed out of the car attired in a beautiful traditional dress. Immediately many villagers, both friends and relatives, approached her. After greeting her mother and father, she later told us sadly that they had both aged so much since she left.