Nwaotam Masquerade: A Representation of the Ottam (Ndoki) People

Nwaotam Masquerade Play at Akirika Ukwu-Ndoki in 2021, Photographed by Ndoki Nmanma Nu Media Crew WHO ARE THE OTTAM/OTAM PEOPLE? The Ndoki people, before the popularization of the Name Ndoki were known as "Otam/Ottam" people. This was recorded in Captain Crow's Map and on the Dialect Mapping done by Rev. John Clarke in 1848 in …

ByChikwereOctober 2, 20240Comments

Cultural Heritage

Agaba: The Powerful Igbo Cultural Masquerade

Agaba mask from Achala, 1946. Photo: William Fagg. British Museum. Coloured by Úkpúrú 2017. The Agaba Masquerade is one of the most revered and powerful masquerades in Igbo culture, known for its fierce appearance and significant spiritual and social roles. It is prevalent in several Igbo-speaking regions, particularly in Anambra, Enugu, and parts of Delta State,…

ByChukaOctober 1, 20240Comments

Cultural Heritage

Enuani: Ubulu Clans in Igbo Cultural Area

The Ubulu clans in Igbo cultural area.There's a common origin for all Ubulu towns and communities. The Ubulu people trace they roots to "Ani Ubulu" founded by Ezemu, from Nri who settled around an Ubulu tree. Ubulu clans can be found in Delta, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu & Imo states. List of Ubulu towns & communities: — Ubulu-Ukwu (Delta) —…

ByChukaSeptember 30, 20240Comments

Cultural Heritage

The Ozo Title Stool: Symbolism and Status in Igbo Cultural Tradition

Ozo Title Stool, 19th-20th century. Met Museum. The stool shown here is one of the more ornate designs used by highly ranked Ozo titleholders. In parts of Alaigbo, Ozo title holders receive stools carved from a single block of wood. The level of intricacy in the carving typically reflects the holder's rank, with more elaborate designs indicating…

ByChukaSeptember 30, 20240Comments

Historical Studies

Ethnic and Regional Resentments in Pre-Civil War Nigeria: A Study of Divisions Between Western, Northern, and Eastern Nigeria

THE PRINCIPAL ETHNIC GROUPS IN EASTERN NIGERIA. 15 15 Source:- Ministry of Information, Eastern Nigeria. The resentment between Western and Northern Nigeria against Eastern Nigeria, particularly in the period leading up to and following Nigeria’s independence in 1960, was driven by a combination of political, economic, ethnic, and cultural factors. This tension ultimately contributed to the…

ByChukaSeptember 29, 20240Comments

Cultural Heritage

Ekpo Masquerade Dance in Ubakala: A Rite of Heritage, Veneration, and Ancestral Power in Igbo Culture

Ekpo Masquerade dance in display at Ubakala, Umuahia, Abia State. In a small Igbo village, the annual Ekpo masquerade was held to honor the ancestors. Amadi, a young man, was chosen for the first time to wear the Ekpo Nkak mask, symbolizing the spirit of vengeance. it is a profound spiritual ceremony that connects the living…

ByChukaSeptember 28, 20240Comments

Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage

Adorned Identities: Traditional Hairstyles of Igbo Women and Girls (1900-1930)

Igbo women and girls and their hairstyles, 1900-1930. Photogrid by Ukpuru 2019. In Igbo culture, hairstyles signify beauty, status, and spirituality. Between 1900 and 1930, women and girls showcased intricate designs, adorning their hair with various ornaments. The crested hairstyle Ojongo remained popular until the mid-20th century and is a distinctive element in Igbo art representing women.…

ByChukaSeptember 28, 20240Comments

Anthropology and Ethnography Ethnohistory

The Cultural Significance of Traditional Igbo Coiffures: Symbolism and Identity

"Ibo Coiffures" Photo: Tribes of the Niger Delta - P.A. Talbot, 1910s. Igbo coiffures have a rich cultural and historical significance, often symbolizing status, age, marital status, and even spiritual beliefs. Here are some key traditional Igbo hairstyles: 1. Isi Ogo (Chief’s Hair): This is an elaborate style traditionally worn by Igbo chiefs or people of high…

ByChukaSeptember 28, 20240Comments

Anthropology and Ethnography

Initiating Young Hearts: Small Boys Masquerades in Isuikwuato

Small boys masquerade in Ovim Village, Isu Ikwa Ato [Isuikwuato]." - G. I. Jones, 1930s.In Ovim village of Isuikwuato, small boys masquerades play an important role in local festivals and cultural events. These masquerades allow young boys to participate in the vibrant masquerade tradition of the Igbo people, helping to instill cultural values and a…

ByChukaSeptember 28, 20240Comments

Anthropology and Ethnography Ethnohistory

Unveiling Ogwashi Ukwu’s Rich Heritage: A Historical Reflection

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. The progenitor of Ogwashi-Ukwu, one Odiagbo, is said to have been banished from Nri for committing an…

ByChukaSeptember 27, 20240Comments

Blog Standard

Nwaotam Masquerade: A Representation of the Ottam (Ndoki) People

Agaba: The Powerful Igbo Cultural Masquerade

Enuani: Ubulu Clans in Igbo Cultural Area

The Ozo Title Stool: Symbolism and Status in Igbo Cultural Tradition

Ethnic and Regional Resentments in Pre-Civil War Nigeria: A Study of Divisions Between Western, Northern, and Eastern Nigeria

Ekpo Masquerade Dance in Ubakala: A Rite of Heritage, Veneration, and Ancestral Power in Igbo Culture

Adorned Identities: Traditional Hairstyles of Igbo Women and Girls (1900-1930)

The Cultural Significance of Traditional Igbo Coiffures: Symbolism and Identity

Initiating Young Hearts: Small Boys Masquerades in Isuikwuato

Unveiling Ogwashi Ukwu’s Rich Heritage: A Historical Reflection

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