Who are the Isu People and Where do they inhabit? The Isu people, often referred to as Isuama (translating to, “Isu Region or Land”), are an inland people that inhabit the central region of Igboland, which is situated between Southern Anambra and Northern Imo, inland of the Igbo territory. They are part of the larger…
Mgba, Igbo traditional wrestling, has been an exceedingly popular sport amongst the Igbo people. Young, physically fit Igbo men engage in this practice, which acknowledges strength and talent and promotes the indigenous language, culture, norms, values, and customs. The competitors usually demonstrate their physical prowess by defeating their opponent in Mgba wrestling; a defeat happens…
Before the incursion of Christian missionary activity into Igbo society, this ichi marking was an important protective mechanism for its bearers against the convoluted social fabrics in Igbo society. Those with distinctive facial scars were partly immune from the dread horror of abduction for slavery, which loomed large during those turbulent times. Among the Igbo,…
Amadioha Amadioha is the Arusi or Agbara of thunder and lightning of the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria. He is amongst the most popular of Igbo deities and in some parts of Igboland, he is goes by various names across Igboland such as Amadiora, Kamalu (Kalu Akanu), Ofufe, or Kamanu. Amadioha is considered one of…
Uli, or Uri (in some parts of Igboland), is an intricately beautiful and vibrant body art that is predominantly practiced by Igbo women in South-Eastern Nigeria. It is an artistic tradition that carries heavy cultural significance. The name, “Uli,” is derived from the trees whose fruit or pods are used for extracting the painting medium…
The Oja Flute The Igbo people have a very vibrant ancient culture that has survived for years and the Oja flute is one. It is a traditional musical instrument of the Igbo people. It is typically made from wood or bamboo, with a simple, rustic design. The Oja flute usually has six holes, which are…
Igbo Cosmology Igbo cosmology refers to the traditional understanding of the universe and the nature of reality of the Igbo people of West Africa. The key aspects of Igbo Cosmology includes: Supreme Being: Chukwu (also known as Chineke) is the supreme deity, creator of the universe, and source of all life. Spiritual Realm: Igbo cosmology…
The Concept of Life after Death in the Igbo Society In Igbo belief, reincarnation is the idea that the soul is reborn into a new body after death, continuing its journey through life. Igbo people believe that after death, the soul does not cease to exist but is reincarnated into a new family member, often…