You may not know who the Igbo are, but what I have found among them shows a people very committed to changing the course of history. A brief history of the Igbo will help you to know who they are and why they are one of the most respected and respected people in Nigeria. The earliest records of the Igbo are found in Igbo-ukwu archaeological artifacts dating from the 9th century.
The bronze head and other objects found in the excavations indicate indigenous technology of a highly developed nature. They had an early knowledge of complex metallurgy and complex clothing weaving which remains today as “Akwete”. Experts learn and combine their weavings with partial success and admiringly acknowledge the Igbo’s achievements in these directions. There is also early knowledge of iron casting and casting seen in weapons, swords etc, from Awka, Abiriba and other areas in Igbo land. This knowledge, experts say, can only be compared to that of the northern part of Nigeria, that is, the NOK CULTURE on the Plateau.
The history of the Igbo from the 9th century to the late 19th century, the era of European colonialism, is sparse and highly speculative due to a lack of records. The most that might be known is that yam, the indigenous cultivation of yam, is believed to have been first achieved in Nigeria and probably West Africa by the Igbo. It is therefore not surprising that the yam has a special place in Igbo culture. The “IRI JI” or “IWA JI”, which is a very important cultural event in Igbo land, may have been derived early as a way to celebrate this agricultural breakthrough. The pottery culture also had early records in Igbo land and dates from before the 9th century.
Politically and culturally, the Igbo are republicans and the organization of the communities was carried out in small village units. The government was run by the elders: gerontocracy, in a way very democratic, although the advent of the slave trade destroyed much of this culture. The Igbo suffered greatly from the transatlantic slave trade. Enterprising young adults were brought in. The specialist bronze metallurgists, foundries and iron manufacturers, the business elite of Arochukwu, the large farmers of Ezza and the neighborhoods all fell prey to slaves, and their enslavement cost the Igbo dearly and cut short their society and the rule of the elders (gerontocracy). Adventurers, the dregs of society, and mercenary soldiers had a heyday, and their actions devastated Igboland.
The Igbo were involved in Nigeria’s quest for independence and their illustrious son, Zik of Africa (Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe) left behind a record that will be hard to beat. However, the “Owelle of Onitsha” (as he is known worldwide) no longer exists; there are other prominent anti-colonialist fighters on the Nigerian scene with new eng coins like juggernauts, wooden men and gauge etc. The most characteristic ability of the Igbo is their adaptability. He is an entrepreneur, hard worker and individualist.
Nigeria, and indeed the entire world, without the Igbo can never be complete. The Igboman is there in the most remote town contributing his share to the economic development of Nigeria, Africa and the entire world. The Igbo are true Nigerians who constantly pray that their brothers are never again involved in senseless wars. In fact, they have proven themselves and know their own weaknesses and strengths and hopefully have learned from their past mistakes. The Igbo are a dynamic people. It should be noted here that for Nigeria to become a world power, or advance from its current quagmire, the contributions of the Igbo are imperative, otherwise the follies of the rest of the other tribes that make up Nigeria may continue unchecked to the detriment of all the people.
The Igboman is the pride of Nigeria. His talents are formidable; his contributions are all encompassing. The rich cultural heritage of the Igbo contributes to making them great. Recognition of titled men like NZE, OGBUEFI, OGBUAGU etc., is among the prominent cultural heritage of the Igboman. It is recognition for tremendous skill and achievement. It gives one a place of honor when community discussions and decisions are made. The Igbo is currently made up of five States: Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo. Although the Aniomas of Delta State, the Igbo people in Rivers and Cross Rivers States are among the populations of the one and indivisible Igbo community, regardless of variations in their culture.
However, the “IRI JI” or “IWA JI” is a common recurring decimal that you will find in all Igbo states and culture. Even till now, the NRI is believed to hold the link in the evolution of Igbo culture. When we talk about the Igbo, we talk about industry, development, unity, peace and progress. It will be an exciting experience to have a handshake with an Igboman one day. The next time you are in Nigeria, Africa, make sure you don’t leave until you have entered the heart of Africa – Igboland, the great emerging nation!
