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Tag: Arochukwu

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Cultural Heritage Historical Studies Photos

Ekpe Society: Guardians of Trade, Knowledge, and Nsibidi in Pre-Colonial Southern Nigeria

The Ekpe society, also known as Okonko, is a secretive cultural institution originating among the Ejagham people of southeastern Nigeria. Through its unique blend of ritual, governance, and symbolism, the Ekpe society became a vital force in the social, economic, and political life of the region. Its influence expanded significantly due to the Aro people,…
January 8, 20250Comments

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Anthropology and Ethnography Ethnohistory Historical Studies

Mazi Nwanyi: Women in Arochukwu’s Leadership and Culture

A woman from Arochukwu with an ornate hairstyle. Photographed by Northcote Thomas, 1912-13. Arochukwu, a prominent cultural and historical city in Southeastern Nigeria, has long been known for its unique traditions and societal structures. Central to this heritage is the title “Mazi,” a term of deference typically reserved for male elders within the Aro communities, including…
December 24, 20240Comments

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Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage Photos

The Okonko Masquerade: A Cultural Pillar of the Southeastern Igbo Communities

Ọ̀kọ̀nkọ̀ masks at Umuowa in the central-Igbo area (Imo) on the cover of African Arts. Photographed by Eli Bentor, March 1988. The Okonko masquerade is a central cultural and social institution among the Southeastern Igbo people of Nigeria, particularly in the Umuahia area of Abia State. It is a vital expression of the Ekpe society, a…
December 19, 20240Comments

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Historical Studies

Alvan Ikoku: The Life and Legacy of a Nigerian Educational Pioneer

Mazi Alvan Ikoku, whose portrait graces the Nigerian 10 naira note, is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated educationists. Despite this honour, few Nigerians truly understand his contributions to education, nationalism, and community development. This paper delves into Ikoku’s life, exploring the events and achievements that merited his enduring legacy on Nigerian currency and in history. Who…
November 19, 20240Comments

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Cultural Heritage Historical Studies

Uli Art and Cultural Transformation in Igboland: The Influence of Missionary Intervention and the Resilience of Igbo Artistic Traditions

Igbo lady decorating house walls with uli, Igboland. Photo by Margaret Courtney-Clarke, late 1980s. Uli art, a distinctive form of body and wall decoration traditionally practiced by Igbo women, represents a unique cultural heritage in Igboland. This art form utilizes fluid, abstract motifs applied to walls, bodies, and ceremonial structures, often with deep symbolic meanings tied…
November 15, 20240Comments

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Cultural Heritage Historical Studies

Chukwu is Aro, Not Nri: Understanding Igbo Cosmology Beyond Misinterpretations

Sketch of Igbo Cosmology / Unknown source. Many have misunderstood the concept of "Chukwu" in Igbo culture. That confusion arose partly due to colonialism and missionization that sought to reform Igbo understandings of deity to better fit Judeo-Christian beliefs about one all-powerful God . However, Igbo worship was historically a belief in many gods, each…
November 2, 20240Comments

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Nwaokoye Odinigbo, IsiNze ofUruoji, consecratingelephant tusksforfour ozomen who are taking the okike title
Anthropology and Ethnography Ethnohistory

The Influence of Nri: Leadership, Titles, and Cultural Heritage in Igbo Land

Nwaokoye Odinigbo, isi Nze of Uruoji, consecrating elephant tusk for four  Ozo men who are taking the okike title   Nri culture is one of the most fascinating and significant subcultures in the Igbo cultural area. With unique title and religious systems, which have been adopted by much of Igbo land, Nri’s influence is undeniably profound and…
September 24, 20240Comments

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