Gender Flexibility and Authority in Igbo Culture

The Igbo people have a good political system, which they call a dual-sex system. In this system, men and women share power, but it does not mean one person is under the other. Instead, men and women have separate groups that do things, but still work together to ensure that society is balanced. Alusi Ifejioku –…

ByChukwunwike OssaiMay 23, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage

Women’s Title-Taking: The Iyom Title in Igbo Culture

An Onicha woman of the Otu Odu society The Iyom title is one of the most prestigious honours bestowed upon women in traditional Igbo society. It is a title of distinction, symbolising integrity, social influence, and community leadership. The Iyom stands as the female equivalent of the male Ozo title — both…

ByIdenze EzemeJanuary 21, 20250Comments

Ethnohistory Photos

Obi Samuel Okosi I: The First Christian Obi of Onitsha and His Journey to Leadership

Obi Samuel Okosi I, widely known as Obi Onitsha ‘Sammy’ Okosi I, holds a unique place in the history of Onitsha as its first Christian monarch. His ascension to the throne in 1899 marked a significant turning point in the interplay between indigenous traditions, colonial influence, and religious transformation in southeastern Nigeria. Emerging as Obi…

ByChuka OdikeJanuary 9, 20250Comments

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory

The Onitsha Trader and Otu Odu Society: A Historical Insight

This picture taken c. 1889, possibly by G. F. Packer credited with other photos from the Niger and Onitsha (and of Onitsha trading women), is annotated as 'Trader from Timbuctou' on the left and 'Rich Trading Woman' on the right. This photograph, taken circa 1889, is attributed to G. F. Packer, who is known for documenting…

ByChuka OdikeNovember 20, 20240Comments

Cultural Heritage

The Otu Odu Society: Matriarchal Influence and Social Prestige among Onicha Women

An Onicha woman of the Otu Odu society In Onitsha (Onicha), women who belong to the Otu Odu society hold significant social and spiritual influence. The Otu Odu is an exclusive and prestigious group traditionally composed of high-status women, often those who are married to wealthy men or have demonstrated considerable wealth and contribution to their…

ByChuka OdikeOctober 10, 20240Comments