"[An Igbo] spirit worker painting the walls of an Mbari nearing completion. Note the double Mami Wata images at left. Photo 1930s, [Near Owere (Owerri)]." - Herbert Cole, 1988.
Introduction
Michael Iheonukara Okpara (1920–1984) was a visionary Nigerian statesman, medical doctor and nationalist leader who significantly influenced Nigeria’s political and economic landscape, particularly as the Premier of Eastern Nigeria (1959–1966). Known for his focus on agricultural development, industrialization and education, Okpara’s leadership continues to serve as a model for self-reliance and economic transformation in…
Urata-Igbo Mbari house dedicated to Amadioha, photographed by William Fagg in Owerri. British Museum.
Introduction
Mbari houses are unique cultural and spiritual edifices found in Igbo land, particularly in the Owerri region and some substantial number of towns in Imo states and Rivers States, Nigeria. These ceremonial structures serve as artistic expressions of gratitude to Ala,…
"I[g]bo MBARI house. 28/2/46. at EBELE, OWERRI [now in Imo State, Nigeria]. Figures of telephone operators" William Fagg. British Museum. 22 June 2018The Igbo Mbari house is a traditional architectural and artistic expression of the Igbo people in southeastern Nigeria. On February 28, 1946, a notable Mbari structure was documented at Ebele, Owerri (now part…
Mazi Alvan Ikoku, whose portrait graces the Nigerian 10 naira note, is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated educationists. Despite this honour, few Nigerians truly understand his contributions to education, nationalism, and community development. This paper delves into Ikoku’s life, exploring the events and achievements that merited his enduring legacy on Nigerian currency and in history.
Who…
Amuneke of Owerri
An Oratta man [Amuneke]? from Owerri.
Second slide, words from Amuneke from Owerri and translated by an Okirika man who is part of P. A. Talbot's team.
Photo: P. A. Talbot - Tribes of the Niger Delta, 1930s.
"The goddess of the earth," as described by P. A. Talbot, c. 1932. Musée du quai Branly. This may be Ala, the Igbo earth divinity and the man pictured may be an Eze Ala, a head priest of Ala. Ala is represented by trees and shrubs.
Etche and Oratta tribes share several cultural, linguistic, and traditional…
A hippo swallowing a person on a face of an Mbari in Owerri - Uratta Area, 1904/ Wikipedia
Mbari House
Mbari is a traditional Igbo art form and architectural structure from southeastern Nigeria. An Mbari house is a large, elaborate building or shrine complex adorned with intricate sculptures, carvings, and murals depicting various aspects of…
