The Ohafia War Dance

Iri Agha is a war dance of the Ohafia, Igbo subgroup, from southeastern Nigeria. The dance is an energetic interpretation of this culture and expresses the past martial arts activities of the Ohafia communities, who are very well known for their bravery and skill in battle.

Traditionally, the Ohafia were a tribe of feared warriors, and their culture glorified those people who returned from the battlefield with the heads of their enemies-a proof of their bravery and status. Iri Agha dance is done to commemorate such achievements through energetic movements that mimic what exactly a warrior would do during combat. Dancers, usually in their warrior attire with ornamental swords or machetes, move in steps showing valour, agility, and victory of the Ohafia warrior tradition. The music of the dance is usually provided by drums, flutes, and other musical instruments.

From war achievements celebrated literally in the days of old, the Iri Agha has assumed a figurative dimension in these modern times, performed during festivals, ceremonies, and other important communal gatherings. Yet, it is still something very central to Ohafia identity in that it symbolizes bravery, honor, and that warrior spirit once claimed by the community.

The dance also helps in reminding the people of the virtues of bravery and security within the community as well as among the people of Ohafia.

References

• Uchendu, V. C. (1965). The Igbo of Southeast Nigeria. Holt, Rinehart and Winston.
• Afigbo, A. E. (1981). Ropes of Sand: Studies in Igbo History and Culture. University Press.