During the Bristish expansion during the chaotic years in the early 19th century, they were faced with rebellion, fearlessness, and resistance from Onicha-Olona and Anioma society at large.
A fierce campaign was planned against the Bristish authority by The Ekumeku Chiefs of Onicha-Olona, including Dunkwu, Elumelu, Ebora, and Ikemefuna
To stop the efforts to succeed a chaotic withhold in their village and the Anioma Igbo area at large . Their labor toped in the Ekumeku battle of 1902-03, a time showed by intentional rebel engagement and a relentless spirit.
Regardless the trials of the Bristish to resolve the chaos, by installing native councils was in the communities to reduce the revolt, but the warriors of Ekumeku continued their resistance to British rule, organizing support from Ezi and Akwukwu the neighboring Anioma communities.
“The hostile chiefs” as the British described them disagreed to obey the traditional orders of the native councils that were established by the colonial government, they mocked the attempts of pro-British associates by organizing their own indigenous a top-council.
The urge for Independence, and cultural pride was a unique form of rebellion, that stresses the Anioma community’s violent loyalty to their land and traditions.
In the Anioma’s strong history, the inheritance of these courageous leader remains a energetic reminder that will continue to inspire the future generations to respect and remember the heroes, who stood unshakeable against the forces of oppression from British government
Ohadike, D. C. (1994). Anioma: A social history of the western Igbo people
