Introduction
The Osu caste system in Igboland has been a deeply entrenched traditional belief that divides communities and fosters discrimination, segregation, and violence. It categorizes individuals into two broad groups: the Osu, considered outcasts or slaves dedicated to deities, and the Diala, the freeborn who are regarded as superior members of society. This classification has…
An Igbo woman photographed by Northcote Thomas, Onicha Olona, 1912.
The Igbo people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria and Africa, have a rich cultural heritage that has been documented through various mediums. Among these are the photographs of Igbo women captured by British anthropologist Northcote Thomas between 1910 and 1911 during his ethnographic…
The Ohafia war dance "Iri Agha". Adult male carrying a headhunters trophy (Oyaya) on his head." G.I. Jones, 1932-1939.
Iri Agha is a war dance of the Ohafia, Igbo subgroup, from southeastern Nigeria. The dance is an energetic interpretation of this culture and expresses the past martial arts activities of the Ohafia communities, who are very well known for their bravery and skill in battle.
Traditionally, the Ohafia were a tribe of feared warriors, and their culture glorified those people who returned from the battlefield with the heads of their enemies-a proof of their bravery and status. Iri Agha dance is done to commemorate such achievements through energetic movements that mimic what exactly a warrior would do during combat. Dancers, usually in their warrior attire with ornamental swords or machetes, move in steps showing valour, agility, and victory of the Ohafia warrior tradition. The music of the dance is usually provided by drums, flutes, and other musical instruments.
A Nsude pyramid taken by G.I Jones 1935
The Nsude Pyramid (Nkpura) Shrine is an archaeological site near the modern-day Enugu community of Nsude, in southeast Nigeria.
The Nsude Pyramid was built by the indigenous Igbo people of Nsude and environs. The primary construction material is mud built upward in a circular manner. The exact…
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…
Eze Nri Obalike sounding his bell, Thomas Northcote
Ọ̀ràézè Ǹrì
In the heart of southeastern Nigeria, the ancient Kingdom of Nri flourished as a powerful medieval entity, extending its spiritual and political sway across vast swathes of Igboland, with the revered Eze Nri at its helm.
The kingdom (more or less a Priestdom) influenced a large…
Igbo Map by Ukpuru and Aba City photographed by OU and Tours
The Ngwa People
Ngwa is an Igbo subgroup from Abia State, Southeastern Nigeria. The origin of Ngwa people dates back to the 14th century when they migrated from the Igbo heartland, from a village called Umunoha in the present Owerri zone of Imo State…
Isuama Map by Ukpuru and Isuama-Ibo, Isu tribe, ‘Okorosie’ masquerade. Masks called 'Nwanyioma’ and 'Akatakpuru’ 1931
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…
Awka Blacksmiths David Nwume & John Uzoka, London, 1924-1925
The Awka Blacksmiths
David Nwume and John Uzoka, two blacksmiths from Awka, went to the British Empire Exhibition in 1924–25, which was held in Wembley Park in London, England.
There work was so fascinating that they won prizes in the metalwork category for building "The Awka Gate,"…
Onitsha, 1889, Photographer possibly by G. F. Packer credited with other photos from the Niger and Önïcha (Onitsha)
Trade-by-Barter
"Trade-by-Barter" was a common practice in all the markets in Ala Igbo before the introduction of the cash economy.
People exchanged goods like farm produce, livestock, crafts, and services without using money. Goods were exchanged based on…
