Eze Uzu Archives ~ Ozi Ikòrò

07

Jan 2026

The ‘Eze Uzu’ (King of Blacksmiths): Examining the Socio-Political Power of the Awka Iron-Working Guilds During British Pacification

A young apprentice assisting in a smithy helps illustrate the transmission of indigenous technological skills across generations. Photo credit: Hajjare, via Wikimedia Commons. The Awka people of southeastern Nigeria developed one…

02

Jan 2026

Anthropology and Ethnography Ethnohistory Historical Studies

“Eze Uzu” (King of Blacksmiths): Examining the Socio-Political Power of the Awka Iron-Working Guilds During British Pacification

Before the establishment of British colonial rule in southeastern Nigeria, Awka stood as one of the most influential craft centers in Igboland. Renowned for their mastery of iron, Awka blacksmiths…

31

Mar 2025

Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory

The Rise, Decline, and Potential Revival of Awka Blacksmithing: A Centuries-Old Igbo Craft

An Ọka [Awka] blacksmith, nnẹ ụzụ, and his nwa ụzụ, an apprentice blacksmith, photographed by G. T. Basden, early 20th century. Awka in Anambra State, Nigeria, is a big name for…