The Osu Institution in Igbo Society: Outcasts, Priestly Functions, and the Atlantic Slave Trade

Alusi shrine with its priest (seated) and the osu (‘ritual slave’), Orsu, West Isuama Igbo. Photograph by G. I. Jones, 1930s. Jones Archive, Southern Illinois University In different Igbo societies, Osu are seen as outcasts or are part of a caste system. It has made people known as Osu discriminated against, especially in terms of who…

ByIdenze EzemeAugust 24, 20250Comments

Achina: A Hilltop Igbo Town Rooted in Tradition, Royalty, and the Sacred Rhythm of Nkwa Music

Achina, which people call Achina Idegwu egbe buru oku asoghi anwuru (meaning it is only a brave bird that would carry a burning thing without fear), is one of the towns in Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State. The town is on top of a hill in South Aguata, and if someone wants to use…

ByChukwunwike OssaiMay 24, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory

The Strong Role The Igbo Women Played In our Pre-Colonial Time To Boost The Igbo Economy Through Farming

Before the time of the white men (pre-colonial period) in Igbo land, agriculture was the backbone of everything — from food, to how people lived together, to how they saw themselves. As one scholar, Vincent Uchendu, said, agriculture is an "Igbo staff of life." It covers many things like planting crops, food processing, keeping small…

ByChukwunwike OssaiMay 14, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory

Orlu: The Commercial and Cultural Powerhouse of Imo State

View of Orlu. Photo from Eboh Media YouTube Orlu is a large city in Imo State, Nigeria. It has become one of the largest towns in Igbo land, known for its role in business and culture, and for having survived the test of time. The city is located in the centre of southeastern Nigeria and has…

ByChukwunwike OssaiMay 5, 20250Comments

Ethnohistory Historical Studies

Aguleri: The Cradle of Igbo Civilization and Cultural Heritage

Aguleri is an old town in Anambra State, Nigeria, where the people are well-known in Igbo history as one of the oldest and most respected communities in Igboland. Some people see it as the place where the Igbo people first started. The town strongly connects with the legend of Eri, a mystical person people believe…

ByChukwunwike OssaiMay 2, 20250Comments

Ethnohistory

Nsukka: The Brain Capital and Cultural Beacon of the Igbo People

Nsukka is a notable town in Enugu State, Nigeria. It has become one of the biggest centers for culture, books, and history in Igbo land. The town houses the University of Nigeria, and the place has become a hub for intellectual work, art, and tradition. From what people say, colonial records, old stories, and what…

ByChukwunwike OssaiMay 2, 20250Comments

Ethnohistory Historical Studies

Ugbo: A Living Archive of Ancient Igbo Civilization and Cultural Resilience in Enugu State

Ugbo has been in existence since ancient times. It is said that people have been residing there as far back as 3000 BC. Ugbo is one of the first communities that settle east of river niger. They believe it is a man they call Ewa who is the ancestor of many towns like Amoli, Agbudu,…

ByChukwunwike OssaiMay 1, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory

Igbo Etiti: Preserving Culture and Agricultural Prosperity in the Heart of Enugu State

Igbo Etiti is a local government area (LGA) in Enugu State, rich in Igbo culture, fertile farming land, and a strong history. It is located in the northern part of Enugu and is an area where numerous Igbo communities come together, showcasing unity, pride, and a strong work ethic. Their history comes from stories, old…

ByChukwunwike OssaiMay 1, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory

Igba Uche Festival of Ohafia: Honouring Tradition, Celebrating Service, and Unlocking Tourism Potential

The Igba Uche Cultural Festival is an Important traditional festival that Ohafia people in Abia State always perform. This festival has been around since the time of our ancestors, demonstrating strong respect for the age-graded system, hard work, and community unity. The festival is a way to honor people who have served the community well…

ByChukwunwike OssaiApril 30, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Historical Studies

Aji Ekere Festival of Ebonyi State: A Cultural Bridge Between Tradition and Modernity

The Aji Ekere Festival is one of the oldest and most important festivals celebrated by people in Ebonyi State, especially among the Izzi, Ezza, Ikwo, and other communities. The festival has deep roots in their farming life and traditional beliefs. It means many things, such as Thanksgiving, a cleansing of the spirit, bringing people together,…

ByChukwunwike OssaiApril 29, 20250Comments