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

Cultural Heritage

Types of Agwu and Their Animal Symbolisms in Igbo Culture

Gracefully seated in mystery and power, the Agwu deity stands as the gentle heart of Igbo spirituality. Photo: Igbo History In Igbo culture, Agwu is a powerful spiritual force that holds a central place in the lives of the Igbo people. It is more than just a deity; it is the essence of creativity, wisdom,…

ByIdenze EzemeJuly 17, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage

Agwu: The Heart of Igbo Spirituality

Agwu, the revered Igbo deity of wisdom, healing, and divination. Photo: Igbo History In Igbo culture, Agwu is a powerful spiritual force that shapes the lives and destinies of the Igbo people. It is the spirit of wisdom, creativity, and purpose, guiding individuals to fulfil their roles in life. Agwu is deeply rooted in Igbo…

ByIdenze EzemeJuly 17, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage

Ngene: The Guardian Spirit of Igbo Families

Ngene spirit figure, collected by Northcote Thomas in Awgbu (now in Anambra State, Nigeria) in 1911. Photo: Re-entanglements In Igbo culture, spirituality is deeply woven into daily life, and one of the most revered spiritual entities is Ngene, a powerful ancestral spirit known for its protective role in families and communities. …

ByIdenze EzemeJuly 12, 20250Comments

Four Market Days, Eke, Orie (also known as Oye), Afọ, and Nkwọ. Photo: Newswatch, October 5, 1985, p. 53."

Cultural Heritage

Symbolism of the Four Market Days in Igbo Culture

Four Igbo Market Days: Eke, Orie, Afọ, and Nkwọ. Photo - Ikesinachi The Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria have a unique and intricate way of understanding time, rooted deeply in their cultural, spiritual, and natural worldview. Their traditional calendar is built around a four-day week—Eke, Orie ( also known as Oye), Afọ, and Nkwọ.…

ByIdenze EzemeMay 23, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage

Amadioha: The Igbo God of Thunder, Justice, and Creation

A clay statue of Amadioha placed in an Mbari house, as shown in the 1927 work "Some Nigerian Fertility Cults." The Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria have a vibrant spiritual heritage that is deeply rooted in their traditional religion, Odinani (also known as Odinala). At the heart of this cosmology lies Amadioha, the revered god of…

ByIdenze EzemeMay 18, 20250Comments

Ethnohistory Historical Studies Photos

Haiti’s Independence Day: Celebrating the Igbo Legacy in Haitian Culture

Haiti’s Independence Day on January 1st is not only a commemoration of the first successful slave revolt in the Americas but also an opportunity to reflect on the African roots of its people, particularly the significant influence of Igboland in modern-day Nigeria. The Igbo, brought to the Americas through the transatlantic slave trade, left a…

ByChuka OdikeJanuary 1, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Historical Studies

The Role and Significance of Azụ Anya Mmụọ in Igbo Spirituality: A Window to the Ancestral World

In the spiritual and cultural landscape of the Igbo people, the azụ anya mmụọ or Anya mmụọ—literally translating to “eyes of the spirits”—holds profound significance. This wooden openwork panel, typically located in front of the obi (the central household of a patriarch) in the north-central Igbo area, serves as a boundary between the living world…

ByChuka OdikeDecember 20, 20240Comments

Cultural Heritage Historical Studies

A Brief History of Chukwu Abiama

Chukwu Abiama is a vital part of Igbo culture and spirituality. Its history goes back to before Christianity came to Nigeria. The Igbo people regarded it as an oracle, meaning it had a huge influence on the lives and beliefs of the Igbo. This article will analyse the history of Chukwu Abiama, what the name…

ByIdenze EzemeNovember 17, 20241Comment

⁠Religion and Spirituality

Ibini Ukpabi: The Arochukwu Long Juju

The Arochukwu Long Juju The Aro people, a branch of the Igbo ethnic group, founded the Arochukwu Long Juju shrine in the 17th century. A renowned Aro priest from Agbagwu, is credited with establishing the shrine. He is believed to have discovered the Long Juju (Ibini Ukpabi), a supernatural being, in a cave. The…

ByChizobem Chinedu OpiahOctober 17, 20240Comments