Lokili is a local name for dog meat in Ondo Town, Ondo State, Nigeria. It is the favorite meat of the people of the Southwestern part of Nigeria. The people are descendant of Oduduwa in Ile-Ife. Dog is one of the most important animals used as pet, it is also used hunt other animals as it is easily trained to become a predator. Dog meat are taboos in some cultures and religion but for the people of Ekimogun Kingdom (Ondo people), it is their best meat.
An Ondo indigene would tell you it is the most delicious meat to be tasted. Lokili is prepared in homes and restaurants. You would hardly see a joint with dog meat as a menu. It is also the special meat in Ondo town festivals such as the Ogun festival (dogs on sight are slaughtered by the worshippers), Ekimogun Day celebration (founder’s day) and other celebrations.
PREPARATION
The local dog is used to prepare this special treat. Dog is a very tough animal to kill, so it is killed by tying in a sack. It is then hit on a hard material like a huge stone before it loses its life. It has to be done repeatedly to kill the dog. The animal is then slaughtered in an abattoir. The parts are then washed thoroughly with water to flush out its blood and dirt. A big pot is to be used to parboil the meat on a medium heat. Seasoning, curry, and salt to taste are added to boil the meat. The meat can be used to prepare several delicacies including pepper soup (scent leaf is a major ingredient). Lokili pepper soup is popular in every joint of the town. For the fun lovers, life starts at 9pm, where dog meat is a special attendee among the people. Lokili is a common lingua franca in the town.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Dog meat is a source animal protein. It also contain fats and oil, vitamins such as Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, and Vitamin C. Minerals in dog meat include Calcium, Iron, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Sodium. Its health benefits includes; improving blood circulation, repairing worn out tissues and raising body temperature. Expect to be served dog meat whenever you visit Ondo town. You can only resist if your religion or culture don’t allow. Enjoy the meat if you are not a vegetarian.