Folklores Archives ~ Ozi Ikòrò

15

Across many West African societies, fruits are more than sources of nourishment, many carry cultural, spiritual, and symbolic significance. Among the Igbo of southeastern Nigeria, Udara, botanically identified as Gambeya…

13

Mar 2026

Cultural Heritage Folklores

The Igbo-Egu-Nkalu War and Early Settlement Dynamics: Oral Traditions and Historical Accounts of Afikpo

The history of many African towns and communities is rooted not in written documents, but in rich oral traditions that preserve memories of early settlement, migration, conflict, and cultural consolidation.…

21

Feb 2026

Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Folklores Historical Studies

Vanishing igbo children’s games and toys that taught survival skills , coordination and cultural values

Band playing for Mmau Masquerade, Amuda village, Isu Ochi Instruments: udu (pot drum), two small membrane drums, on small ogene (iron bell) and a whistle. Photos credit : G.I. Jones In…

20

Feb 2026

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Folklores

Traditional Igbo justice systems, village councils (Amala), and trial by ordeal methods

Meeting with a group of Igbo elders during a trip to Nigeria Photo Credit: Last Places The traditional Igbo justice system is a profound manifestation of "republicanism and communal democracy." Unlike…

20

Feb 2026

Ethnohistory Folklores Historical Studies

The art of palm wine tapping and its social role in gatherings and rituals

Picture of a Igbo palm wine tapper carrying a climbing rope and calabash over shoulder. Holding a machet in his right hand. Wearing loin-cloth. Standing beside building with corrugated metal…

18

Feb 2026

Folklores Historical Studies ⁠Religion and Spirituality

Sacred groves (Ihu Ala) – protection and modern threats

In the heart of almost every traditional Igbo community lies a verdant sanctuary known as the Ihu Ala or Ohia Nso (Sacred Grove). These are patches of primary forest preserved…

05

Feb 2026

Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage Folklores

The Oloris (Queens): The Political and Social Influence of the Wives of the Olus

His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the 21st Olu of Warri, and Her Majesty Olori Atuwatse III (Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom) pictured with Nigerian and international guests, highlighting the…

01

Feb 2026

Anthropology and Ethnography Folklores

Syncretism in the Palace: How Royal Burial Rites Blend Christian Prayer with Ancient Traditional Protocols

A church-based funeral service in Nigeria, showing mourners gathered for prayer and rites visualising the Christian prayer component that often complements traditional burial protocols in syncretic royal funerals. Photo credit:…

16

Jan 2026

Anthropology and Ethnography Folklores Historical Studies

The Royal Bronze Casters of the Benin Kingdom

A group of Benin Bronzes (brass/bronze plaques and figures) as displayed in the British Museum. These cast works were originally part of the royal palace complex and court art produced…

14

Jan 2026

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Folklores

The Migration of Prince Ginuwa: The 15th-century Exodus from the Benin Kingdom and the Founding of the Warri Kingdom

A historic map illustrating the location and territorial extent of the Warri (Iwere) Kingdom not long after its founding is useful for contextualizing the migration and settlement patterns following Ginuwa’s…