Isuama: The Region of the Isu People

Isuama Map by Ukpuru and Isuama-Ibo, Isu tribe, ‘Okorosie’ masquerade. Masks called 'Nwanyioma’ and 'Akatakpuru’ 1931

Who are the Isu People and Where do they inhabit? The Isu people, often referred to as Isuama (translating to, “Isu Region or Land”), are an inland people that inhabit the central region of Igboland, which is situated between Southern Anambra and Northern Imo, inland of the Igbo territory. They are part of the larger … Read more

Mgba: Traditional Igbo Wrestling

Wrestling at Elele described by P. A. Talbot as wrestling to make the yams grow. Chief Eleche's place, Elele in Some Nigerian Fertility Cults, 1927

The Igbo Wrestling Sport Mgba, Igbo traditional wrestling has been an exceedingly popular sport amongst the Igbo people. Young, physically fit Igbo men engage in this practice, which acknowledges strength and talent and promotes the indigenous language, culture, norms, values, and customs. The competitors usually demonstrate their physical prowess by defeating their opponent in Mgba … Read more

The Ichi Tradition: A Symbol of Identity and Nobility Among the Igbo

Igbo Men Mgburuichi from Nri. Photographed by Northcote Thomas, c. 1910-1911. Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Cambridge

Before the incursion of Christian missionary activity into Igbo society, this ichi marking was an important protective mechanism for its bearers against the convoluted social fabrics in Igbo society. Those with distinctive facial scars were partly immune from the dread horror of abduction for slavery, which loomed large during those turbulent times. Among the Igbo, … Read more

Amadioha: The Igbo God of Thunder

Usòrò: Urata-Igbo Mbari house dedicated to Amadioha, photographed by William Fagg, near Owerri

Amadioha Amadioha is the Arusi or Agbara of thunder and lightning of the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria. He is amongst the most popular of Igbo deities and in some parts of Igboland, he is goes by various names across Igboland such as Amadiora, Kamalu (Kalu Akanu), Ofufe, or Kamanu.  Amadioha is considered one of … Read more

Uli: Traditional Igbo Tattoo and Wall Art

Uli, or Uri (in some parts of Igboland), is an intricately beautiful and vibrant body art that is predominantly practiced by Igbo women in South-Eastern Nigeria. It is an artistic tradition that carries heavy cultural significance. The name, “Uli,” is derived from the trees whose fruit or pods are used for extracting the painting medium … Read more

Oja: Melody and Solemnity In Igbo Society

Northcote Thomas Igbo Oja Collections 1909-1913

The Oja Flute The Igbo people have a very vibrant ancient culture that has survived for years and the Oja flute is one. It is a traditional musical instrument of the Igbo people. It is typically made from wood or bamboo, with a simple, rustic design. The Oja flute usually has six holes, which are … Read more

Igbo Cosmology: The Igbo Worldview

Conceptual Interpretation of the Igbo world view, Henderson, 1972:123

Igbo Cosmology Igbo cosmology refers to the traditional understanding of the universe and the nature of reality of the Igbo people of West Africa. The key aspects of Igbo Cosmology includes: Supreme Being: Chukwu (also known as Chineke) is the supreme deity, creator of the universe, and source of all life. Spiritual Realm: Igbo cosmology … Read more

Reincarnation: The Igbo Concept of Birth and Death

Igbo Burial, Journal of The Anthropological Institute Of Great Britain And Ireland Vol.47 1917

The Concept of Life after Death in the Igbo Society In Igbo belief, reincarnation is the idea that the soul is reborn into a new body after death, continuing its journey through life.  Igbo people believe that after death, the soul does not cease to exist but is reincarnated into a new family member, often … Read more

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