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The Legend of the Bush Baby
In Nigerian folklore, the Bush Baby is a small, eerie creature said to haunt forests and boarding school dormitories. Known for its baby-like cries and glowing eyes, this spirit is feared for luring people—especially students—into the bush, never to be seen again.
Origins and Beliefs
Many tales describe the Bush Baby as a cursed child, a lost soul, or a forest spirit. Others say it’s a trickster entity that feeds on fear, especially at night. Its cries, often heard around midnight, are said to mimic a baby weeping—tempting victims to investigate, only for them to disappear.
In boarding schools, students are warned not to answer the cries of the Bush Baby or leave their dorms after dark. Its legend has been passed down for decades and remains one of the most dreaded stories in Nigerian school folklore.
Real-Life Encounters
Many ex-boarders claim to have heard the Bush Baby or witnessed unexplainable events. In a chilling story shared by a former student:
“By midnight, the hall would start scattering itself. The benches and tables would smash against each other as though someone was there.”
— Zikoko
Such tales often match across different schools, giving the legend more credibility among those who’ve heard the cries or seen shadows moving in the dark.
Symbolism and Cultural Role
Beyond the horror, the Bush Baby represents the power of folklore in shaping behavior. It’s a cautionary tale that warns against wandering alone, listening to strange noises at night, or breaking school rules. In many ways, it blends myth with moral instruction—while keeping listeners terrified.
Further Reading:
- 7 Nigerians Share Their Boarding School Horror Stories – Zikoko
- Madam Koi Koi & Other Nigerian School Myths
Have you ever heard the cries of the Bush Baby? Or do you think it’s just a scary bedtime story? Share your experience in the comments or tag us @gistnaijablog.
