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84-861: The exact origins of the Aro Confederacy are not precisely documented, but it is believed to have been established around the mid-17th century. The Aro people, who were part of the Igbo ethnic group, inhabited the region around present-day Arochukwu in Abia State, Nigeria. They were skilled traders and missionaries who played a pivotal role in connecting various Igbo communities. This migration and their military power, and wars with neighboring kingdoms like supported by their alliances with several related neighboring Igbo and eastern Cross River militarized states (particularly Ohafia , Edda , Abam , Abiriba , Afikpo , Ekoi , Bahumono , Amasiri , Uzuakoli etc.), quickly established

168-511: A sovereign nation . The Annang , Ekid, Oron and Ibeno share personal names, culture, and traditions with the Ibibio, and speak closely related varieties (dialects) of Ibibio which are more or less mutually intelligible . The Ekpo and societies are a significant part of the Ibibio political system . They use a variety of masks to execute social control . Body art plays a major role in Ibibio art. The predominant paternal haplogroup among

252-771: A 4% chance. The languages spoken in Arochukwu LGA are, Ibibioland The Ibibio people ( / ɪ b ɪ ˈ b i . oʊ / ih-bih- BEE -oh ) are a coastal people in Southern Nigeria . They are mostly found in Akwa Ibom , Cross River , and the Eastern part of Abia State . During the colonial period in Nigeria, the Ibibio Union asked for recognition by the British as

336-494: A convenient way, but are not a new form of expression. Substances such as the atido were used for eyelid decoration long before modern eye shadow. As in many other cultures around the world, Ibibio women generally put heavy emphasis on the eye when it comes to make-up. Hair styles are another way for the Ibibio to symbolically mark certain occasions. Styles of hair in Ibibioland include both elaborate braiding with and without

420-537: A large expanse of fertile land, which makes it a food basket of Abia State. With Palm plantations, Rubber Plantations, Rice paddies, Cassava farms, Cocoa plantations, and others, covering much of the landscape. It is a place with so much peace and hospitality to its indigenes and visitors alike. Its sons and daughters, doing exploits across the globe. Ihechiowa is an autonomous Igbo speaking community in Arochukwu Local Government Area, Abia State . It

504-568: A part of the Eastern Nigeria of Nigeria under British colonial rule. During the Nigerian Civil War , the Eastern region was split into three states. The then-Southeastern State of Nigeria was where the Ibibio were located, it was created from the original twelve states of Nigeria after Nigerian independence. The "Southeastern State" was later renamed Cross River State . On 23 September 1987, by Military Decree No.24, Akwa Ibom State

588-446: A red substance. People's palms, feet, legs, and faces are decorated with the pigment. The Ibibio use it partially for its bleaching effect. After continuous usage, it produces a smooth and light skin complexion. Modern versions of face and body decoration such as eye shadow, lipstick, and eyeliner are used by contemporary Ibibio people. Body decoration has a long history in the Ibibio and these products help their cultural expression in

672-563: A regional military power bloc that the whole of Igbo land dreaded. Sometimes, these power bloc of warrior clans were utilised and exploited by the Aro people for their own Aro territorial expeditions across Southern Nigeria. It is speculated that without the Abam warriors and other neighbouring Warrior clans like the Abam, that there would have not been an Aro confederecy. Abam people were not just warriors, but were also hardworking farmers and traders. Abam has

756-515: A regional military power bloc that the whole of Igbo land dreaded. Sometimes, these power bloc of warrior clans were utilised and exploited by the Aro people for their own Aro territorial expeditions across Southern Nigeria. It is speculated that without the Ututu warriors and other neighbouring Warrior clans like the Ututu, that there would have not been an Aro confederecy. Ututu people were not just warriors, but were also hardworking farmers and traders. It

840-793: A result of clashes with the Igbo people who were moving southward, culminating in the Ibibio War which took place about 1630 and 1720 A.D., they left Ibom Kingdom and moved to the present day Ibibioland. Some village settlement had already been established in their current location alongside the Ibom. Following the Aro-Igbo-Ibibio war of 1550 A.D, the Ibibio's moved southward and found a virgin and empty land, their present place. The Ibibio first settled in Ikono from where they migrated or dispersed to further places becoming

924-468: A thoroughgoing mechanism for self-rule, maintenance of law and order, and effective political organization : Using some elements of culture and socio-religious organizations such as Ekpo , Ebre, Ibaan Isong, Ekong, Ikpa—udoh and many others to enforce law and order and to put the masses of the population under control. The Ibibio people are found predominantly in Akwa Ibom State and are related to

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1008-591: Is Igbo mixed with Ibibio and Akpa . The main language in Arochukwu is Igbo while Ibibio is also spoken. The population of Arochukwu town is 10,776. The local government area had a population of 193,820 in 2011, up from 97,800 in 1991. Daily highs hover around 83 °F, rarely dropping below 79 °F or rising over 87 °F. The day of July 23 had the lowest daily average high temperature at 82 °F. Daily lows hover around 73 °F, rarely dropping below 70 °F or rising beyond 76 °F. On August 6,

1092-499: Is a general understanding of their opposing relationship. Feminine masks are decorated with light colors such as white. Their features are delicate to emphasize their femininity. On the other hand, masculine masks use dark colors to represent the mystic forces of the forest. These masks often have large features and are created to be intentionally ugly. They achieve this by distorting the features in unnatural manners such as having bulging eyes or misplaced mouths. Many deformities present in

1176-489: Is a town in Nigeria known for its marketplace in which crafts are sold to both tourists and middle-class Nigerians. While the Ibibio are not known for metalworking , there is a significant number of craftspeople making this type of art to be sold. Most metalwork objects produced have a practical purpose rather than a decorative one. Despite this, Ibibio coffins tend to be highly decorative. They feature ornamental painted metal motifs, colorful plastic sheets, and glass panels on

1260-558: Is also in the food belt of Abia state where most of the staple foods are produced. Before Igbo arrival in the Aro territory, a group of proto Ibibio migrated to the area and established the Ibom Kingdom during the Bantu expansion . This proto Ibibio group originally came from Usak Edet ( Isanguele ), a segment of the Ejagham in present-day Southern Cameroon. The first Igbo settlers to arrive to

1344-404: Is called Ukpong Ikot, or bush-soul. The shadow is not thought to be connected with the ethereal body but to be an emanation of the soul and therefore to be directly affected by any action on it. The majority of the Ibibio believe that a person's soul can be invoked into his shadow, which is made to appear in a basin of water. The shadow is then speared, his blood is seen in the water in the basin and

1428-565: Is now known as Eastern Nigeria. Abam is a populated Igbo clan in Abia state . It is located in Arochukwu / Ohafia federal constituency of Nigeria. Abam is the biggest clan by population and landmass in Arochukwu LGA, and one of the biggest clan in Abia North senatorial district. Abam is a brother clan to Ohafia, as both Abam and Ohafia share a common ancestry, culture, dialect etc.The progenitor of

1512-408: Is open to all Ibibio males, but one must have access to wealth to move into the politically influential grades. The main purpose of Ekpo is to protect its people and act as a defense against potential attackers. They are concerned with issues and emergencies that pertain to the safety of the town as a whole. In addition, it serves as an outlet for men to productively use energy to benefit everyone. In

1596-891: Is perhaps Dr. C. O. Okoreaffia, a renowned anthropologist that best describes the stratification of Ututu Villages. According to him, Ututu is an autonomous community of 19 Villages. These Villages are zoned into four anthropological groupings, which have stood the test of settlement stratification from the very beginning of the Ututu settlement. The zones are in alphabetical order: Zone One: Ututu Akasi: made up of 5 villages, namely; 1. Amakofia 2. Eziama 3. Obijoma 4. Ohomja 5.Ugwuogo Zone Two: Ututu Eleoha: made up of 6 villages, namely; 1. Amasa 2. Amaeke 3. Amankwu 4. Amodu 5. Nkpakpi 6. Obiagwulu Zone Three: Ututu Umunna Isii made up of 4 villages, namely; 1. Amaebem 2. Obiakang 3. Obialuoko 4. Ukwuakwu Zone Four : Ututu Umu Ugwuonyiri made up of 4 villages namely; 1. Abuma. 2. Amaetiti 3. Obiene 4. Ubila The kingdom

1680-637: Is the principal actor in Ikono Ibom Uyo clan, settled in Ikot Oku Ikono and founded the Ikono Anyaan and Ikot Ekpeyak Ikono are stock and children of Ikono Ibom, they have shared and similar social, traditional and cultural Milieu. By Ekom Iman is a place which Iman Ibom settled and planted the Ekom tree (coula edulis) from which the name of the settlement is derived, Ekom (coula edulis) planted by Iman one of

1764-848: Is the second largest clan by land size in Arochukwu Local Government area. It is a community of people with common history and ancestor. Ihechiowa consists of seventeen villages, each with its village head (the Eze Ogo). Ihechiowa is among the Igbo population that may have, therefore, been part of waves of migration across the Niger and back, these include Ohafia, Abam, Ututu and so on. They were described as warlike in pre colonial times. They sojourned at various times, in places like Uturu, Ibeku, and Ihenta (now in Ohafia). They finaly settled down in their present location. Although no archaeological research work

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1848-608: Is the widespread use of the manila , a popular currency used by the Jukuns. Coupled with this, is the Jukun southern drive to the coast which appears to have been recently compared with the formation of Akwa Ibom settlements in their present location. The most accepted version of Ibibio history described that the Cameroon will offer a more concise explanation of their origin. This was corroborated by oral testimonies by field workers who say that

1932-566: Is well versed in Greek. The masks and accoutrements of the Ekpo society make up the greatest works of art in Ibibio society. Ibibio often purposefully play with proportions in their masks to distort the face. A component that appears often in Ibibio masks is an articulated lower jaw. Ibibio people have an overarching theme of contrasting male and female masks by using dark and light colors respectively. These masks are not always performed together, but there

2016-610: The Ikpaisong . The Obong Ikpaisong ruled with the Mbong Ekpuk ('head of the families'), which together with the heads of the cults and societies constitute the Afe, Asan, or Esop Ikpaisong ('traditional council, shrine, or court'). The decisions of the Obong Ikpaisong were enforced by members of the Ekpo or Obon society who act as messengers of the spirits and the military and police of

2100-599: The Annang community, the Ibibio community and the Eket , although other groups usually understand the Ibibio language . Because of the larger population of the Ibibio people, they hold political control over Akwa Ibom State, but the government is shared with the Annangs, Eket and Oron. The political system follows the traditional method of consensus . Even though elections are held, practically,

2184-562: The Aro Confederacy as a regional economic power. However, Aro economic hegemony was threatened by the penetration of Europeans , mainly British colonists in the wake of the 20th century. Tensions finally led to bloodshed and the Anglo-Aro War took place from 1901 to 1902. The Aro Confederacy stoutly resisted but were eventually defeated. This helped the British to occupy the rest of what

2268-503: The Igbo subgroup, Aro people . It is composed of five clans namely Abam , Aro, Ihechiowa, Ututu and Isu. Arochukwu is a principal historic town in Igbo land. It was also one of the cities in the Southern protectorate targeted by the British colonial government. Several historic tourist sites exist in the city. The mystic Ibini Ukpabi shrine, the slave routes and other relics of the slave trade era are frequently visited by tourists. It

2352-632: The Ijaw , Efik , and Igbo . The Aros formed a strong trading network, colonies, and incorporated hundreds of communities that formed into powerful kingdoms. The Ajalli , Arondizuogu , Ndikelionwu , and Kingdoms were some of the most powerful Aro states in the Confederacy after Arochukwu. Some were founded and named after commanders and chiefs like Izuogu Mgbokpo and Iheme who led Aro/Abam forces to conquer Ikpa Ora and founded Arondizuogu. Later Aro commanders such as Okoro Idozuka (also of Arondizuogu) expanded

2436-443: The sky is overcast or mostly cloudy. On July 29, there is a 78% chance of cloudy or mainly cloudy weather . On July 29, there are 22% more clear, mostly clear, or partly overcast circumstances than any other day of the summer. For comparison, the likelihood of gloomy or largely cloudy weather on May 13, the cloudiest day of the year, is 87%, while the likelihood of clear, mostly clear, or partly cloudy skies on December 27,

2520-421: The 1940s would be killed by members of the Ekpo. It is known as a secret society despite the fact that the purpose and activities are widely known by the village. This is due to the fact that everyone must abide by certain laws during Ekpo season. The most important secrets are a series of code words and dance steps taught to initiates and used by members. Knowing these secrets allows members to travel freely during

2604-566: The 19th century, things changed. During the 1890s, the Royal Niger Company of Britain bore friction with the Aros because of their economic dominance. The Aro resisted British penetration in the hinterland because their economic and religious influence was being threatened. The Aro and their allies launched offensives against British allies in Igboland and Ibibioland . After failed negotiations,

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2688-423: The Aro Confederacy as a regional economic power. The Aro Confederacy's strength came from its well-organized network of Aro agents who were dispersed across different communities in the region. These agents acted as intermediaries in trade, diplomacy, and religious matters. They facilitated commerce, resolved disputes, and spread the worship of the Aro deity known as the " Long Juju " oracle. The " Long Juju " oracle

2772-528: The British attempted to conquer the Aro Confederacy in 1899. By 1901, the tensions were especially intensified when British prepared for the Aro Expedition. The invasion of Obegu (in Igboland) was the last major Aro offensive before the start of the Anglo-Aro War . In November 1901, the British launched the Aro Expedition and after strong Aro resistance, Arochukwu was captured on December 28, 1901. By early 1902,

2856-460: The Ekpo society. This process is commonly used among women. It is often done after the birth of a child. The stains that are left afterwards can stay on the skin for up to three months. Professionals are typically the ones who paint others, and the process may take from five to eight hours to complete. Iduot is another form of body painting which symbolizes fertility. The pigment is taken from crushed camwood and then added to water which produces

2940-739: The God of the Heaven (Abasi Enyong) and the God of the Earth (Abasi Isong) through various invisible or spiritual entities (me Ndem) of the various Ibibio Division such as Atakpo Ndem Uruan Inyang, Etefia Ikono, Awa Itam, etc. The Priests of these Deities (me Ndem) were the Temple Chief Priests/Priestesses of the various Ibibio Divisions. A particular Ibibio Division could consist of many interrelated autonomous communities or kingdoms ruled by an autonomous Priest-King called Obong-Ikpaisong, assisted by heads of

3024-685: The Ibibio is E1b1a1-M2 . The ancestors of the Ibibio originally came from Northeast Africa and moved around the Green Sahara . The gradual movement of the Proto Ibibio to the Cross River Region may have been associated with the expansion of Sahel agriculture in the African Neolithic period, following the desiccation of the Sahara in c. 3500 BCE . The Ibibio people are reputed to be one of

3108-685: The Ibom Kingdom. Akakpokpo Okon was the son of a marriage between an Igbo women of the Eze Agwu clan and the King Obong Okon Ita in an attempt of a peace treaty. The Eze Agwu/Nnachi faction decided to help Akakpokpo attempt to overthrow his brother king Akpan Okon. Nnachi invited the Akpa people from the east of the Cross River . The Akpa forces led by Osim and Akuma Nnubi , helped the rebellious group capture

3192-523: The Mbia Idiong told him what the things were and he had offered them as sacrifices to Mother Earth, the Ibibio believed the situation would be reversed; otherwise, he would remain childless. The Ibibio were introduced to Christianity through the work of early missionaries in the nineteenth century. Samuel Bill started his work at Ibeno. He established the Qua Iboe Church which later spread places in

3276-743: The Office concern. In reference to the Obong-Ikpaisong, the word 'Obong' means 'King'. In reference to the Village Head, the word means 'Chief'. In reference to the Head of the Families (Obong Ekpuk), the word means 'Head' In reference to God, the word means 'Lord'. In reference to the Head of the various societies - e.g. 'Obong Obon', the word means 'Head or Leader'. Scattered throughout each village were sacred lands, akai (forest). They were called akai because no one

3360-607: The Oguta Lake Slave Market, Onitsha, Abonnema, and Bonny. These markets were centres of international trade, diplomacy, and major gateways through which Western civilization entered Igboland. Aro activities on the coast helped the growth of city-states in the Niger Delta , and these city states became important centres for the export of palm oil and slaves. Such city-states included Opobo , Bonny , Nembe , Calabar , as well as other slave trading city-states controlled by

3444-564: The Oguta-Ameshi, Onitsha, and Kalabari monarchies. Their economy was primarily based on sale of slaves and agriculture with crops like palm oil , yams, and assava. During the Trans-Atlantic slave trade , the Aro were the primary provider of slaves to the wealthy riverine Igbo merchants of Oguta (Oguta-Ameshi Ameshi, Onitsha, and Kalabari. The prominent international slave markets in Igboland were

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3528-635: The Supreme Being (Abasi Ibom) by the Constitutional and Religious King/Head of a particular Ibibio Community who was known from the ancient times as the Obong-Ikpaisong (the word 'Obong Ikpaisong' directly interpreted means King of the Principalities of the Earth' or 'King of the Earth and the Principalities' or Traditional Ruler ). The second dimension of Ibibio Religion centered on the worship, consultation, invocation, sacrifice, appeasement, etc. of

3612-757: The aboriginal people of the present Ibibio lands. It is at this juncture that Ikono Ibom moved to Ikot Oku Ikono village now in the Uyo Local Government Area, which is referred to as Ikono Ibom Uyo, a clan carved out of the main Ikono Ibom. Iman Ibom moved to Ekom Iman, now in Etinan Local Government Area and Nsit Ibom moved to Afia Nsit now in Nsit Ibom . The three regards themselves as blood brothers and children of Ibom . The three children of Ibom upon their final settlement, Etefia who

3696-439: The animals which abounded in the forests. The explanation is simple. If non-members were allowed to enter any secret society akai they might in due course discover the secrets of their time-honoured society, and wicked people might even desecrate the graves of their ancestors hence the ban. Like many Ibibio words, Ukpong ('soul') has four meanings. First, ethereal body, secondly, soul, thirdly, spirit, and fourthly, over-soul;

3780-702: The area was the Eze Agwu Group led by their leader Agwu Inobia from Abiriba . Tensions between the Igbo settlers and the indigenous Ibibio led to the Aro-Ibibio Wars . The Efik were originally from the Ibom Kingdom and might have left before or during the Aro-Ibibio Wars. The war was initially a stalemate and the Eze Agwu group eventually invited a priest named Nnachi from the Edda clan of northeastern Igboland. Eze Agwu and Nnachi allied with prince Akakpokpo Okon of

3864-399: The capital of Akwa Ibom. Published by the 200-year-old, American based International Bible Society (Biblica), the publishers of the NIV Version. The Ibibio Bible was translated by Ibibio professors, including Professors Margaret Mary Okon, Bassey Okon, Eno-Abasi Urua, Inimbom Akpan, Udo Etuk, as well as Dr. Paulinus Noah, Dr. Effiong Ekpenyong and Rev. Fr. Dr. Donatus Udoette, a theologian who

3948-399: The clearest day of the year, is 43%. A day that has at least 0.04 inches of liquid or liquid-equivalent precipitation is considered to be wet. The likelihood of a wet day in Arochukwu increases quickly throughout the summer, from 80% at the beginning of the season to 86% at the end. For comparison, on September 16 there is a 90% possibility of a wet day, while on January there is

4032-422: The community. The chief will send masked individuals to confront a rule-breaker if the need arises. Ekpo members Ekpo Masquerades are always masked when performing their policing duties. Although their identities are almost always known, fear of retribution from the ancestors prevents most people from accusing those members who overstep their social boundaries, effectively committing police brutality. Membership

4116-399: The core Ibibio people were of the Afaha lineage whose original home was Usak Edet in the Cameroons . The Uşak Edet ( Isanguele ) are a subgroup of the Ekoi people (the Ejagham). This was premised on the fact that among the Ibibio people, Usak Edet is popularly known as Edit Afaha (Afaha's Creek) which reflects the fact that Ibibio people originated from Usak Edet. After the first bulk of

4200-405: The dead are transported there. The land of the dead, like that of the living, is believed to be divided into various countries, towns, villages and lineages where different communities of people live as on earth. At death every man goes to the particular part inhabited by his people. The Ibibio believe in obot , that is, the individual creation of persons by God. If someone is wild, they say he

4284-400: The earliest inhabitants of southern Nigeria . It is estimated that they arrived at their present home around 1000 B.C. In spite of the historical account, it is not clear when the Ibibio arrived at the state. According to some scholars, they might have come from the central Benue Valley , particularly, the Jukun influence in the old Calabar at some historical time period. Another pointer

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4368-681: The east by the Cross River and Isu Clan, in the South by Enyong and Itu Rivers / Creeks, in the North by Ihechiowa Clan and in the West by Arochukwu Clan and Nkana River / Iwerre Clan. The geographical area known as Ututu described above is named after the founder of the Clan Mazi Otutu Ezema. Historically, Ututu people were fierce and dreaded warriors. They gloried in war conquests, and participated much in mercenary and military policing duties across Eastern Nigeria. They were contracted across Igboland and beyond for defence purposes, on behalf of communities that were under oppression or annihilation from their neighbouring or far away enemies. Abam warriors were

4452-409: The forehead, wrists, and ankles as a way to mark mediation. When worn by a diviner , it may mark a connection with himself and the gods as well as his people. Members of a ritual may wear it to symbolize peace, humility, as well as acceptance. Odung is a type of body painting that is used for events such as marriage, childbirth, coming-of-age, and death. It may also be used to show a man's status in

4536-477: The goal is to emphasize rather than obscure the wearer's face or other parts of the body. The symbol of the dot plays a key role in the understanding of beauty. Okon Umetuk in his article "Body Art in Ibibio Culture", states that; A 'dot' is regarded as the only perfect mark to indicate and summarize beauty in Ibibio culture. Evidence of this is found in the abundance of dots that appear on the faces and bodies of decorated individuals. An 'X' symbol may be applied to

4620-508: The killing or maiming of this mythical animal. Nsit Ibom moved to Afia Nsit where there was water and settled there, and his children spread to Mbak Nsit and other places of that clan. The Nsit Ibom totem is Iyak Anyan – the Anyan Nsit deity. They all have shared a similar characteristics of social, traditional as well as cultural Milieu and formed the center of this study. The brothers settled close to each other and formed pact and ally or an affinity with each other and had children and devised

4704-417: The last always lives in the house of Abasi Ibom and it is quite separate from the individuality which between incarnations stays in the country of the dead. Though over-soul and spirit are combined, much of the Spirit is contained in that portion of the ego which is incarnated. According to Talbot, it is the soul proper that spends part of its time as a were-animal or in a bush-beast in the forest or water and

4788-696: The leadership of the Northern Region of Nigeria was able to keep the "Northwestern section" during the plebiscite that is now today's Nigerian Adamawa and Taraba States . Ibibio people are found in all Nigerian states and is one of the Nigerian ethnic group living outside of Nigeria after Yoruba and Igbo. Hence, significant number of Ibibio people reside in Europe and North America as well as other countries. In addition to their state of origin, Akwa Ibom State , significant number of Ibibio are found in: Traditionally Ibibio society consists of communities that are made up of large families with blood affinity each ruled by their constitutional and religious head, known as

4872-403: The lowest daily average low temperature is 72 °F. For comparison, the usual temperature range in Arochukwu is 68 °F to 85 °F on January 1, which is the coldest day of the year, and 72 °F to 87 °F on February 17, the warmest day of the year. In Arochukwu, the amount of cloud cover is basically constant throughout the summer , with an average of 81% of the time

4956-466: The man dies. The Ibibio believe that after death the same kind of existence is led as during life on earth; for example, farmers, blacksmiths, hunters, and fishermen will continue with their former occupations while social intercourse and amusements will also proceed as before. The scenery, houses, crops and animals of the next world have the same appearance as in this world but only those beasts, plants and foodstuffs which have been sacrificed in honour of

5040-508: The mask is secured to the wearer's head with a rope, and a horizontal piece of wood may be inserted into the mask in order to bite into. In addition to the raffia on the mask itself, performers also wear a knee-length raffia skirt. The lower legs, arms, and hands are painted with charcoal. New raffia is added to the mask each season, and is displayed in the off-season in a family or village shrine. The Ibibio are known for their woodcarvings , raffia -weavings, and pottery making. Ikot Ekpene

5124-415: The masks come from naturally occurring human diseases and illnesses. One that is often depicted is gangosa , a part of yaws . Signs of baldness and walking sticks also show up often in order to portray symbols of karma and old age. Men's costumes incorporate natural materials from the wilderness such as raffia , and seed pod rattles. Women's costumes use materials such as light colored cloth to represent

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5208-407: The mid-19th century, slaves were also slaughtered by the hundreds upon the death of important chiefs, with the belief that they would serve the deceased chief in the afterlife. Ibibio religion (Inam) was of two dimensions, which centered on the pouring of libation , sacrifice, worship, consultation, communication and invocation of the God of Heaven (Abasi Enyong), God of the Earth (Abasi Isong) and

5292-399: The middle belt of Nigeria. Later, other churches were also introduced e.g. The Apostolic church. Independent churches such as Deeper Life Bible Church , came into the area in the second part of the twentieth century. Today Ibibio people are predominantly Christian. History was made on the 27th day of August 2020 that the first-ever Ibibio Bible translation was presented at Ibom Hall in Uyo,

5376-409: The months of June through December, the Ekpo society plays a large role in the community's life. Many activities such as farming, shopping, and obtaining food and water are prohibited on days in which the masks are out and being performed. Crimes also carry heavier consequences during this time period. While the punishments are lighter today, a person caught stealing during the days of the Ekpo season in

5460-719: The order of living in the village. The masks of the Ekpo societies were used to elicit fear and execute social control . The most common type of mask is one made for the face with waist-length raffia attached. The effect of the masks and their intimidating quality is part of what gives them their power, in addition to the long history of the Ekpo. To put on an Ekpo mask is to surrender earthly identity and assume an ancestral one. Masks used may be ones owned by deceased ancestors, ones made to look like ancestors, or ones made to resemble to village heroes. Many are carved from lightweight wood called ukot (palm wine tree). This makes them easier to wear and move around in. For additional support,

5544-407: The people arrived in what later became Nigeria, they settled first at Ibom. It is believed that the Ibibio were the aboriginal people of Ibom settlement, founded by their forefathers, Ibom , after whom they named the village, Ibom . Now in Arochukwu, where they settled for a very long time and worshiped the God of the Sky called Abasi Ibom enyon . They also worshiped Ibini Ukpabi (Ibritam). As

5628-515: The people of Abam is known as Onyerubi Atita . As a people, Abam clan in Abia state is sometimes referred to as Abam Onyerubi . Historically, Abam people were fierce and dreaded warriors. They gloried in war conquests, and participated much in mercenary and military policing duties across Eastern Nigeria. They were contracted across Igboland and beyond for defence purposes, on behalf of communities that were under oppression or annihilation from their neighbouring or far away enemies. Abam warriors were

5712-443: The pioneers of the popular Ikpirikpi Ogu, also known as Abam War Dance, that was adapted by the Ohafia clan as Ohafia War Dance and to Abriba clan as Abriba War Dance. Abam was not alone in having a sophisticated military culture. Other clans around Abam also developed this culture just like the Abam. Clans like Ohafia, Abriba, Edda, Alayi, Igbere, Ihechiowa, Ututu etc also developed this warrior culture and they all, including Abam built

5796-440: The pioneers of the popular Ikpirikpi Ogu, also known as Abam War Dance, that was adapted by the Ohafia clan as Ohafia War Dance and to Abriba clan as Abriba War Dance. Ututu was not alone in having a sophisticated military culture. Other clans around Ututu also developed this culture just like the Ututu people. Clans like Ohafia, Abriba,Abam,Edda, Alayi, Igbere etc also developed this warrior culture and they all, including Ututu built

5880-426: The political leaders are pre-discussed in a manner that is benefiting to all. The Ibibio people are located in eastern part of South-South Nigeria. Prior to the existence of Nigeria as a nation, the Ibibio people were self-governed. Ibibio people and their brothers (the Annang, Oron and Eket) were part of the enclave called Bight of Biafra before the British creation of Eastern Nigeria. The Ibibio people became

5964-715: The rest of the area. This formed the alliance of 19 new and old states in the area known as the Arochukwu kingdom around 1650–1700. The first king (or Eze Aro) of a unified Arochukwu was Akuma but after his death, Nnachi son's Oke Nnachi took over and his descendants have the throne to this day. By the mid-18th century, Arochukwu people founded many other communities both within and outside Igboland . These migrations, influence of their god Ibini Ukpabi through priests, and their military power backed up by alliances with several related neighboring Igbo and eastern Cross River militarized states (particularly Ohafia , Abam , Abiriba , Ihechiowa , Afikpo , Ekoi , etc.) quickly established

6048-650: The season, and being caught traveling without knowing the secret terms and dance will result in being arrested. Prior to the gradual abolition of slavery in Nigeria by British colonial authorities beginning in the mid-1880s, Ibibio society ranked people, in descending order, as freeborn ( amanisong ), strangers or later immigrants ( ududung ), and slaves ( ifn ). Slaves were purchased in slave markets or captured through intergroup wars. Often people gave themselves or their children up as slaves when they could no longer provide for themselves or their families. Slaves were used as offerings in regular ritual human sacrifice, and through

6132-469: The sides. Many people who carve Ekpo masks live in Ikot Ekpene. Both temporary and permanent body modifications are used. Rhythm and nature are both considerable motifs at play in the designs. Hairdressing, body painting, and body modification are the main focus of body art performed by the Ibibio. Intentional fattening of young women is another culturally important aspect of the Ibibio. In painting,

6216-478: The sons of Ibom. Iman had children and some of them migrated to expand the Iman Ibom clan such villages like Ikot Obioinyang, Afagha Effiate and the entire Iman Ibom clan. Upon the death of Iman Ibom, his spirit metamorphose into the Iman Ibom clan deity “The Itina Iman deity” and oyot is the clan deity – totem hence it is a taboo to kill or eat such mythical beast and Ebre is the totem of Ikono Ibom clan, they forbid

6300-454: The state's borders through warfare at the start of the 19th century. Aro migrations also played a large role in the expansion of Ozizza, Afikpo, Amasiri, Izombe, and many other city-states. For example, Aro soldiers founded at least three villages in Ozizza. The Aro Confederacy's power, however, derived mostly from its economic and religious position. With European colonists on their way at the end of

6384-634: The various large families (Mbong Ekpuk) which make up the Community. These have been the ancient political and religious system of Ibibio people from time immemorial. Tradition, interpreted in Ibibio Language, is 'Ikpaisong'. Tradition (Ikpaisong) in Ibibio Custom embodies the Religious and Political System. The word 'Obong' in Ibibio language means 'Ruler, King, Lord, Chief, Head' and is applied depending on

6468-559: The war was over and the Aro Confederacy collapsed. Contrary to the belief that the Ibini Ukpabi was destroyed, the shrine still exists, and is intact in Arochukwu and serves mainly as a tourist site. Arochukwu Arochukwu Local Government Area , sometimes referred to as Arochuku or Aro Oke-Igbo , is the third largest local government area in Abia State (after Aba and Umuahia ) in southeastern Nigeria and homeland of

6552-495: The worsening situation. If the instructions were strictly followed, the position could be reversed, they believed. For instance, if a person had no issue a diviner might tell him that he had killed innocent children in his previous incarnation, and that the parents of the deceased and the general public had cursed him, saying that he would not have any issue and would continue to kill innocent children throughout his incarnations unless he gave certain things as sacrificial offerings. When

6636-458: Was carved out of the then Cross Rivers State as a separate state. Cross Rivers State remains as a neighboring and mothering state of Akwa Ibom State. Southwestern Cameroon was a part of the present Cross River State and Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria. During the then Eastern Region of Nigeria, parts were partitioned united with Cameroon in a 1961 plebiscite. This resulted in the Ibibio and Annang being divided between Nigeria and Cameroon. However,

6720-459: Was created that way; if he is kind, again that is how he was created by God to be; if he is poor or rich, that was his lot, and so on; effectively, there was nothing anyone could do to alter his lot, for he was moulded that way. The Ibibio also believe in the same way in destiny, essien emana or uwa . For instance, if a person died accidentally, this was how he had died in his previous incarnation and therefore he had to die that way. If he

6804-467: Was permitted to clear them for cultivation. All burial grounds, shrines for the village deities and spots for secret societies such as Ekpo Onyoho, Ekoong, Idiong, Ekong, were sacred. Everything in these places were equally sacred. Non-members of the secret societies were not permitted to enter the spots set aside for such secret societies, even for the collection of firewood, sticks, fruits (like mkpook), vegetables (like afang and odusa) or snails, or to hunt

6888-422: Was rich, he was so in his previous incarnation and must be so now; if he was brilliant, that was how he was destined to be, etc. He could, however, reverse the situation if he consulted the Mbia Idiong, who alone could tell him what to do. The diviners could help him pin-point what it was he had done in his previous incarnation which was affecting his present life. They could then prescribe to him what to do to remedy

6972-530: Was the spiritual centerpiece of the Aro Confederacy. It was housed in Arochukwu and considered a potent source of political authority and religious guidance. The Aro people used the oracle to enforce their influence and control over surrounding communities. It also served as a means to administer justice and settle disputes, often attracting pilgrims seeking solutions to their problems. The Aro Confederacy gained significant economic power through trade relations with

7056-405: Was undertaken to validate the people’s traditions of origin, migration, and settlement; nonetheless oral evidence supports the assertion that the ancestors of Ihechiowa, together with those of Abam, Edda, Ohafia, and Ututu share cultural and linguistic relationships. Ututu people are a group of people inhabiting Ututu Clan in Arochukwu L. G A. of Abia State. The original boundaries of Ututu are - in

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