World of Indigenous Igbo Culture, History & Their Neighbours
Nkwa Ụmụagboghọ, which means ‘maidens’ dance,’ is a popular cultural dance group in Igbo Land. It was started in 1970 by Chief Vincent Omesi Nwachi from Ndibe, Afikpo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. He helped make it well-known both in Nigeria and other countries. Chief Nwachi was a skilled and talented leader. He made sure the dance … Read more
Introduction In Amachara, a village in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, a remarkable cultural event takes place when an elder passes away at a full and respected age. This event, often called the “horse funeral” or “horse title,” is a second funeral (ịkwa ozu), a grand remembrance ceremony that symbolizes the deceased’s transition into the ancestral realm. … Read more
Igbo women played significant and powerful roles in pre-colonial Igbo society’s economy. They supported not just their families, but through the control of the food, craft and market industries, they contributed immensely to their community developments. This article will lead you to the contributions of Igbo women in agriculture, local industries and market activities, … Read more
The Ifogu masquerade Originating from the southeastern axis of the Igbo cultural area of Afikpo (Ehugbo) holds a cultural and historical significance in Igbo traditions, showcasing complicated artistry and symbolic representations of societal values. In the 1930s, G. I. Jones captured a striking image of the Ifogu masquerade, which features a seated band and two … Read more
The Igbo people of Nigeria are known for their rich cultural heritage, and one of the most captivating aspects of this heritage is their masquerade traditions. In Afikpo, a town in southeastern Nigeria, the Okumkpa masquerade stands out as a unique blend of performance, spiritual expression, and social commentary. Origins and Significance The Okumkpa masquerade … Read more
“Tom Ibe, my field assistant wearing okpu ngwo (hat-raffia). Diviners (dibia) use it when carrying sacred objects for swearing an oath somewhere, but anyone can do so when it rains. Ancient hat form rarely seen nowadays. Note that it was used in Afikpo Yam Priest’s compound the day of first cooking of new yams.” – … Read more
Igbo Atilogwu is a vibrant and energetic traditional dance performance from the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria, significantly in the Wawaa areas of Igboland; parts of Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi States. The Atilogwu dance, a highly energetic and acrobatic performance, is one of the most celebrated forms of Igbo cultural expression. Originating from southeastern … Read more
Okpoha Ngodo is a traditional Igbo performance art form, combining: Music (drums, flutes), Dance, Theater and Storytelling. Okpoha Village-Group, located northwest of Afikpo, is an Igbo community known for it’s rich cultural heritage, traditional art forms (e.g., woodcarving, pottery), agricultural practices (e.g., yam cultivation) The performance likely took place during a significant event, such as: … Read more
“Alaigbo” A breakdown of Igboland cultural regions, ethnic divisions, tribes and sub-tribes. 1. Cross River Igbo (Aro) – Location: Found primarily in the eastern part of Igboland, close to the Cross River area. – Key areas: Arochukwu, Afikpo, Ahaba, Nguzu-Edda, Ihechiowa, Ohafia, Isuikwuato, Abiriba, Bende, and Isiama – Tribes: – Aro – Edda – … Read more