Igbo Masquerades as Colonial Satire: The Ghost Policemen and Oyibo Masks

Igbo ghost policemen masks, representing symbols of colonial authority, were part of the same masquerade performance as the Oyibo or Onye Ocha mask from Amobia (Amawbia), previously mentioned. Captured by G. I. Jones in the 1930s. MAA Cambridge. Masquerades hold a central place in Igbo cultural and spiritual traditions, often serving as a means of social…

ByChuka OdikeFebruary 15, 20250Comments

Photos

Ekpe Meeting House in Umuajatta Village, Olokoro – Annang Art and Ngwomo Influence

A view of the Ekpe meeting house in Umuajatta village, Olokoro, near Umuahia. The structure features a tall thatched roof and walls adorned with paintings by an Annang artist, reflecting the style of Ngwomo ghost houses Ekpe Society Meeting House in Olokoro, Umuajatta, Umuahia. Ngwomo Ghost House – G.I. Jones 1930s.

ByChuka OdikeJanuary 24, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Photos

Asaba masquerade dancing in Ikwerre Igbo area, present-day Rivers state. Photograph by G. I. Jones, in the 1930s.

ByChuka OdikeJanuary 2, 20250Comments

Anthropology and Ethnography Photos

An Igbo boy near food bowl in Abiriba, Abia state, Nigeria, in the 1930s. Photograph: Gwilym Iwan Jones

ByChuka OdikeDecember 29, 20240Comments

Cultural Heritage

Kinship, Sexuality, and Social Values Among the Igbo: Insights from Ngwa Society

The Igbo culture places greater emphasis on the father-child relationship than on the husband-wife bond or any other kinship ties. Within this cultural framework, sexual interactions in the family are primarily directed toward achieving a crucial social objective: the continuation of the male lineage. Unlike some other societies, Igbo traditions do not demand exclusivity in…

ByChuka OdikeDecember 6, 20240Comments

Cultural Heritage

Mgbedike Masquerade: Origins, Cultural Significance, and Traditions of a Revered Igbo Heritage

Introduction The Mgbedike masquerade is a prominent cultural performance in Igbo land, particularly in the southeastern region of Nigeria. Known for its striking costumes, powerful dances, and symbolic meanings, Mgbedike translates to “Time of the Brave” or “The Brave One Has Landed.” This masquerade embodies themes of courage, justice, and social order, reflecting the values…

ByChuka OdikeNovember 27, 20240Comments

Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage

Alusi in Igboland

Alusi in Orsu, West Isuama Igbo. G. I. Jones, 1930s. In Igbo cosmology, Alusi (also known as Arusi or Chukwu’s servants) are deities or spirits that serve as link between the Supreme Being (Chukwu or Chi Ukwu) and humans. They represent various aspects of the natural world, morality, and community governance. The reverence of Alusi is…

ByChuka OdikeNovember 22, 20240Comments

Cultural Heritage Historical Studies

The Heritage of Ndoki Weaving: Akwete Cloth and the Debate on Cultural Ownership in Southeastern Nigeria

Akwete (Ndoki Igbo) Weaver (Postcard). Akwete cloth, woven by the Ndoki Igbo people, represents a rich textile tradition with deep roots in Southeastern Nigeria. Traditionally, the town of Akwete has been most closely associated with this craft, yet the origins and techniques of weaving in this region are a shared legacy among the Ndoki communities. A…

ByChuka OdikeNovember 15, 20240Comments