The history of Igbo men’s hairstyles offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural evolution and social structure of the Igbo people. Pre-colonial Igbo hairstyles were much more than just fashion statements; they were symbolic expressions of identity, status, and roles within society. From warrior braids to intricate patterns worn by elders, the diversity and complexity of these hairstyles reveal deep-rooted values that have been transformed by the impact of colonialism.
In pre-colonial Igbo society, each hairstyle had a specific meaning tied to age, status, and personal achievements. Some of the most prominent hairstyles include:
1. Ibu (or Ibo) Hairstyle:
The Ibu (or Ibo) Hairstyle is a traditional Igbo hairstyle typically worn by older men or elders. This style features a small patch of hair left at the top of the head, while the rest of the scalp is shaved clean. The Ibu hairstyle symbolizes wisdom, age, and respect within the community, distinguishing elders from younger individuals.
Originally, Nna (father) Igbo names did not reference a monotheistic deity, neither were they necessarily about a person’s direct father. Nna names are about the collective of ancestors and all who come under them (umunna).
In Igbo culture, the Ibu hairstyle was a mark of honour and experience, signifying that the wearer had achieved a respected position due to age or wisdom. Elders with this hairstyle were often seen as the custodians of knowledge, culture, and tradition.
2. Odo (Chieftain’s) Hairstyle:
The Odo (Chieftain’s) Hairstyle is a traditional Igbo hairstyle worn by men of high social status, such as chiefs or community leaders. This elaborate hairstyle was designed to reflect the wearer’s leadership, power, and prestige within the community. The style often involved intricate braiding, carving, or decorating the hair, sometimes with beads or other adornments to signify wealth and authority.
The Odo hairstyle was a symbol of the individual’s elevated position and was often worn during important cultural ceremonies, social gatherings, or public events. It was a way for chiefs and influential men to distinguish themselves from others and to assert their authority and respect within Igbo society.
3. Ịsi Kpolọkpolọ (Hair puffs):
Ịsi Kpolọkpolọ is a traditional Igbo male hairstyle characterized by a unique pattern where the hair is shaved in a circular or spiral fashion, often leaving a small patch of hair in the middle of the scalp. The term “Ịsi Kpolọkpolọ” translates roughly to “hair arranged in a spiral or circular design.”
This hairstyle was worn by young men and sometimes by warriors or those who were in training for battle. It was a distinctive look that conveyed a sense of pride, youthfulness, and energy. The circular pattern symbolized the individual’s place in society and could indicate that the person was still in the phase of preparation, learning, or coming of age within the community.
4. Onu-eke Hairstyle:
The Onu-eke Hairstyle is a traditional Igbo hairstyle worn by young men, typically during festive seasons or social gatherings. The style involves tightly woven sections of hair, often creating a neat and symmetrical appearance. It is a reflection of youthful vigor, energy, and potential within the community.
In Igbo culture, the Onu-eke hairstyle was worn to symbolize a man’s strength, readiness for life’s challenges, and his social status as a young adult. The style was often associated with celebration and rites of passage, marking important milestones in a young man’s life.
5. Okwu-Ekpo Hairstyle:
The Okwu-Ekpo Hairstyle is a traditional Igbo hairstyle characterized by the use of palm oil or other natural oils to give the hair a smooth and polished appearance. This style was typically worn by men who were preparing for ceremonial or important community events.
The Okwu-Ekpo hairstyle was more than just a grooming practice; it symbolized the individual’s readiness to participate in significant social or spiritual activities. It was often associated with men of high status or those engaged in leadership roles, as the polished look reflected both pride and prestige.
Northcote Thomas’ album, MAA Cambridge.
Commonly worn by young men or warriors, the Aso hairstyle featured designs that could signify age, achievements, or roles within society. The shaved patterns often represented the individual’s village, family, or even spiritual beliefs. The process required skill, as it involved creating precise shapes that were both decorative and meaningful.
7. Igbo Mohawk: The Igbo Mohawk is a traditional Igbo hairstyle that resembles the modern Mohawk, featuring shaved sides with a strip of hair left in the middle of the head. This hairstyle was often worn by young men, particularly warriors, to symbolize strength, courage, and readiness for battle. The style was bold and distinct, designed to showcase the wearer’s vigor and warrior spirit.
The Igbo Mohawk was more than just a fashion statement; it had cultural significance. It marked the individual as someone who had proven their bravery or was preparing for important communal or ritual activities, such as warfare or coming-of-age ceremonies. The boldness of the hairstyle reflected the wearer’s courage and their commitment to defending their community
8. Ekpo (Masquerade) Hairstyle: This is a traditional Igbo hairstyle associated with men who participate in masquerade rituals, a key cultural practice in many Igbo communities. This style is typically elaborate and symbolic, often worn by individuals involved in masquerade performances, where the hairstyle is part of the ceremonial attire.
The Ekpo hairstyle was characterized by distinctive, sometimes ornate, designs that could include intricate braids or adorned hair, designed to complement the masquerade costume. The hairstyle played a crucial role in the masquerade’s spiritual and cultural significance, as it helped distinguish the masquerader as a spiritual or ceremonial figure
9. Warrior Braids: The warrior braids were a significant part of Igbo male identity, often worn by young men who had proven themselves in battle. These braids were complex, with varying patterns to signify different levels of achievement in warfare. The more intricate the braid, the higher the warrior’s rank.
The diversity in Igbo male hairstyles was a direct reflection of the values and social structures within the community. These hairstyles communicated a man’s role in society, his achievements, and his standing within his family and the wider community.
However, the arrival of European colonialism significantly altered Igbo society, and with it, the traditional practices surrounding grooming and personal appearance. Photographs of Igbo men from the early 20th century show the gradual shift from these complex, culturally significant hairstyles to simpler, more European-inspired cuts. The colonial influence introduced a new standard of beauty and masculinity, which led to the decline of many traditional Igbo hairstyles by the late 1930s.
Despite these changes, many aspects of traditional Igbo culture, including hairstyles, have seen a resurgence in modern times. Today, Igbo men continue to wear traditional styles during cultural festivals and important events, celebrating their heritage while navigating the complexities of a post-colonial society.
References
Eze, S. (2009). Colonialism and its effects on the Igbo society: A historical perspective. Nsukka: University of Nigeria Press.
Ngwama, C. (2017). The impact of colonialism on traditional Igbo customs: A case study of hair grooming practices. International Journal of African Studies, 19(4), 82-96.
Thomas, N. (1910-1911). Anthropological Notes and Photographs from Igbo Land. Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Cambridge.
Uzochukwu, O. (2006). Cultural identity and transformation in Igbo society. African Journal of Cultural Studies, 32(2), 125-136.
