The Women’s War of 1929 often referred to as the “Aba Women’s Riot” stands as one of the most significant anti-colonial uprisings in West African history. Led primarily by Igbo women, with participation from Ibibio, Ogoni, and other southeastern groups, this protest challenged British colonial authority and reshaped policies on governance, taxation, and women’s political…
In a quiet gallery in New York, soft watercolour hues meet the gaze like whispers from another realm. Figures float between the real and the ethereal, brown-skinned, adorned in cosmic symbols, their faces serene yet defiant. This is A Spiral Shell, the creation of Chioma Ebinama, the Nigerian-born, U.S.-based artist who has emerged as one…
The Igbo people in southeastern Nigeria are known for their rich culture, which values family, community, and traditions. Women play a big role in Igbo society as wives (“Nwunye Di”), mothers, and keepers of matrilineal ties. “Nwunye Di” means “wife of the husband” or sometimes “co-wife” in families with more than one wife. It shows…
Unidentified women photographed by Henry Crosse with the Royal Niger Company, c. 1886–1895. Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Cambridge. It is plausible to identify the woman on the left as Omu Nwagboka, the last Omu of Onicha (Onitsha). Omu Nwagboka was a prominent and wealthy trader, appointed as Omu in 1884 by Obi Anazonwu, the…
Place Onicha