Rites Associated with Owho-nu-ogwu (Deified Symbols of Justice) in Ikwerre of Niger Delta
Abstract
Owho-nu-ogwu are two different deified ritual symbols which complement each other in Ikwerre worldview. These two ritual symbols occupy a central and unique place in Ikwerre ritual balance. This is because the people believe that these two cultic symbols can vindicate anyone who is accused falsely as well as punish any offender in line with their customs and traditions, but the belief and practices associated with them are gradually going into extinction as a result of modern forces of change such as westernization. This article, therefore, re-examines the rites associated with these symbols in Ikwerre religious thought. The article adopted the symbolic interactionism theory as its frame work which states that the meaning of symbols is imposed on what the users interpret them to mean. The article adopted both the analytical and descriptive approaches. Our findings so far revealed that the belief in these cultic symbols is still relevant to the people in-spite of the devastating effects of modern changes. The work therefore, recommends that the socio-cultural values of these symbols should not be misconceived as “fetish” as most Christians see it, but rather be seen as institutionalised practice which they inherited from their forebears. The work also recommended that these practices should not go into extinction, but a way through which their culture is kept.
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References
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Oral interview with Eberechi Nwanyanwu of Rumuji Clan on 03/08/2023
Oral interview with Eze Victor Wehuche of Rebisi Kingdom on 02/05/2023
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Oral interview with Elder Chijioke Walia of Omudioga Clan on 13/09/2023
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