A titled Igbo man from Ogwashi Ukwu, (Aniocha), Enuani in Delta State, photographed by Northcote Thomas in 1912, and later colorized by Ukpuru in 2019.

Ogwashi Ukwu was founded by Odaigbo (Adaigbo), a descendant of Eze Nri from Agukwu Nri.

Odaigbo, also known as Odaba Igbo, crossed the Niger River with his brother Edini. They are believed to have fled Agukwu Nri due to local issues. In several versions of the story, they were given a ritual pot, which would break at the location where they were destined to settle.

The name Ogwashi Ukwu, meaning “the great shrine-hall of the Nshi (Nri) people,” reflects this heritage. Edini later founded Igbuzo (Ibusa) alongside other Isuama people, in present-day Imo State, led by Umejei, a son of Eze Isu (Nwa Eze Isu).