Women’s Title-Taking: The Iyom (Otu Odu) Title in Igbo Culture

An Onicha woman of the Otu Odu society

The Iyom title, also called Otu Odu, is a highly respected honour given to women in Igbo society, especially in southeastern Nigeria. Similar to the male Ozo title, this title reflects a woman’s high social status, integrity, and contributions to her community. This title is significant in Igbo culture, representing leadership, tradition, and the protection of Igbo heritage.

Meaning and Symbolism of the Iyom Title

The wordIyomis often translated aspillarormotherly figure,which reinforces the meanings of strength, dignity, and nurturing. The title symbolises the higher status of a woman who is a leader, a keeper of traditions, and a promoter of harmony within society. The Otu Odu is the society of Iyom titleholders, formed by influential women bound together to uphold the ideals of Igbo culture.

An Igbo woman adorned with ivory anklets, a symbol of wealth, status, and cultural identity in traditional Igbo society. Photo: Gustaf Bolinder, 1930–31.

Among the prominent symbols associated with the Iyom title is the odu, or elephant tusk, which represents wealth, authority, and beauty. Wearing ivory anklets and bracelets is a distinct feature of Iyom titleholders, signifying their elevated status and roles as custodians of tradition.

Wealthy Market women in Onicha. G. F. Packer, 1880s. Pitt Rivers Museum.

Title-Taking in Igboland

Title-taking in Igboland in the past was reserved for elderly, married, and wealthy women who had distinguished themselves in life. Young women who have done well and made their towns or communities proud can also be given titles. Age is no longer a factor. The recent conferment of the Odeluwa (The one who writes for the world) on the renowned literary icon Chimamanda Adichie is a testament that title-taking in Igboland is not limited to elderly people. Several highly coveted titles, including Nne Mmanwu, Iyom, and Otu Odu, are available to women in Igboland.

renowned literary icon Chimamanda Adichie
Renowned Literary Icon, Chimamanda Adichie.

Iyom Title

The Iyom title is bestowed on women of tested character, noble character, and conduct. It is similar to the Igbo Ozo title for men. Iyom is the highest title a woman can attain in the societies where it is conferred.

Admission to the exclusive club of Ndi Iyom depends on the approval of the husband and, in some cases, kinsmen. Members of the Iyom are typically dressed in elephant tusk anklets known as Odu and carry a cow tail. Title holders of the Iyom are well respected, appreciated, and honoured with special seating arrangements in the society’s ritual and ceremonial occasions.

The ceremony is an elaborate display of culture interlaced with elegance. High-profile people in society usually attend the celebration. It involves a parade of new members dressed nicely in white clothes, singing and chanting praise songs as men blow a beautifully carved elephant tusk. Enugwu-Ukwu, Agukwu-Nri, Nawfia, and Enugwu-Agidi are some towns known for the Iyom title.

Read More on The History of Elephants in Igbo Land & How it Went From Indigenous Giants to Decline

Odu Title.

The Odu title is the highest title a woman can attain in towns and communities where it is practised. The members are referred to as Ndi Otu Odu. They are identifiable by their attire—white robes, white sandals, and elephant tusk anklets called Odu, which they adorn on their arms and legs. The initiation involves the Odu members parading the new members around the town, followed by dancing and singing at the venue of the Igbu.

Odu Ceremony

Iyom and Odu titles are a true definition of womanhood in Igboland. However, women in Igboland can be conferred with other very prestigious titles, not necessarily Iyom or Odu, for their service to the town. The traditional ruler of the kingdom confers these titles.

When a woman wants to take up a chieftaincy title in Igboland, she purchases things like coco-yams, kola-nuts, and pepper, plus some money, to give to the female chiefs in the community. This is to let them know that she wants to join them. The leader of the chiefs would call a meeting to tell the members that a woman wants to join them, and they would decide if she is fit.

After the woman has shown that she deserves the title, she can be given the right to have it. She will select a chieftaincy name that portrays her intentions and how she wants the community to see her. The aspirant and other chiefs perform ritual activities before she is introduced to the public through a formal ceremony. At this public presentation, she will have to dance before the public, and the rest of the chiefs in the community will dance behind her, showing unity and support.

Responsibilities of an Iyom

After being given the title, some responsibilities come with it to ensure an enhancement in societal development and coexistence. These duties include the following:

  • Promoting women’s rights and empowerment in society.
  • Conflict resolution within families and the community.
  • Supporting charitable activities and community development projects.
  • Active participation in cultural and spiritual events.

Cultural Attire and Symbols

Iyom titleholders are easily recognised by their elegant attire and traditional regalia. Their clothing often includes:

  • White attire: Symbolising purity and dignity.
  • Ivory ornaments Represent wealth, authority, and their esteemed position.
  • Headgear and coral beads: Enhancing their regal appearance during ceremonies.

The Iyom Title in Modern Context

In today’s Igbo society, the Iyom title still holds a lot of importance. Many titleholders balance their traditional roles with modern careers to push for social change and deal with issues such as education, health, and gender equality.

The Iyom title (Otu Odu) is an essential part of Igbo culture. It honours the key roles women have as leaders, protectors of culture, and supporters of their communities. It highlights values like honesty, kindness, and keeping traditions alive, ensuring Igbo culture stays strong and meaningful in a changing world.

References

  • Refined NG. (n.d.). Iyom title (Otu Odu) in Igbo culture.
  • The Guardian Nigeria. (n.d.). Otu Odu in Igbo culture.
  • ABS Radio TV. (2023, December 28). Otu Odu Iyom Abba holds maiden Igba Odu ceremony.

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