Reliving a Dying Tradition: The Rebirth of Igbu Ichi



The sound of ringing bells blends with the thrumming of drums. One man is beating two slit wooden drums and another jingling the rattles (oyo) in unison. Ufie music welcomes the Nwadioka, traditional tattooist to the compound of the Nwa-ichi, the man to be tattooed. Known beyond Neni, Ufie—the music produced by the instruments—is an important music with traditional significance. It is played at prominent ceremonial events like festivals, chieftaincy, as well as during Igbu-Ichi. As the compere takes the microphone, it stops.



“Dioka!” shouted the Master of the Ceremony, Ikem Mgbemena.



“Abunya!” responded members of the audience who were familiar with the call.



It is a common salutation among the Umudioka people of Neni, Anambra state. It is also an expression of patriotism, of loyalty to their community. After the Nigerian National Anthem was sung; it was followed by the Umudioka anthem which was sung solely in Igbo; what did you expect?... http://syncityng.com/2018/09/18/reliving-a-dying-tradition-the-rebirth-of-igbu-ichi/

Wow.

You are from Umudioka, Neni??

I am from Umudioka, Awka.

We still do this Igbu Ichi though not as much as our forefathers did. Its really a dying culture.

Sensitivity1254:
Wow.

You are from Umudioka, Neni??

I am from Umudioka, Awka.

We still do this Igbu Ichi though not as much as our forefathers did. Its really a dying culture.

Hence the purpose of the article. Nice to meet you!