Igbo compound
Obu house in Abiriba. Photo by G.I. Jones 1930s
The Obu serves as the traditional assembly hall for titled elders, where important decisions regarding the community are made. It is a symbol of authority, unity, and cultural identity, deeply rooted in the heritage of the Abiriba people, who are part of the Cross River Igbo group. The Obu/Obi/Obiri house in Abiriba, often referred … Read more
An Ikwerri Ibo (Ikwerre-Igbo) village showing the Obiri
The “Obiri” in a typical Igbo village refers to a communal gathering space or meeting house, central to community life. From the photo, it’s an open-air structure where village elders, leaders, and members gather for discussions, decision-making, and other communal events. The architectural style often reflects local materials such as mud walls, thatched or … Read more
Ancient Igbo Door Found in Awka
The portal to an Igbo compound with a wooden carved door or gate and relief figures in earth from Northern Igbo communities, as captured in a photograph by J. Stocker in the early 20th century, highlights the rich architectural and artistic traditions of the Igbo people. Such doors and gates were often intricately carved with … Read more