Highlight any five features of the Igbo traditional societies.

Answer Details

Features of Igbo traditional societies

The pre-colonial Igbo of south-eastern Nigeria operated a decentralised, republican political system without a central king.

1. Absence of a centralised authority (acephalous/segmentary system): There was no paramount king ruling over all the Igbo; each village or town was largely autonomous and self-governing.
2. Direct/participatory democracy: Decisions were taken at village assemblies where adult males gathered to discuss and reach consensus on matters affecting the community.
3. Rule by council of elders (Amala/Oha) and titled men: Elders, family heads and holders of titles such as the Ozo exercised authority and settled disputes.
4. Age-grade system: Age grades performed important administrative, defensive and developmental functions such as maintaining order, executing public works and defending the community.
5. Kinship and lineage organisation: Society was built around families and lineages (Umunna), and the extended family formed the basic political and social unit.
6. Role of religion and secret societies: Oracles, priests and secret societies (such as the Ekpe and masquerade cults) helped to enforce laws, morality and social control.