Sacred Authority in Igbo Society: An Overview of Cultural Significance

Summary of article contents:

1) Introduction

The article by John N. Oriji explores the concept of sacred authority in the traditional governance of Igbo society in Nigeria. It examines the origins of this form of authority, its significance in the socio-political structure of pre-colonial Igbo communities, and the implications of colonialism on sacred authority. Highlighting the Igbo cosmology and its impact on political legitimacy, the paper argues that sacred authority holders were integral to the governance of Igbo society prior to colonial rule. The discussion also extends to the ongoing crises resulting from the colonial secularisation of authority and prospects for establishing a new political order in modern Nigeria.

2) The Role of Sacred Authority

Sacred authority in Igbo society is grounded in a hierarchical structure of deities, with spiritual leaders acting as intermediaries between these deities and the community. Authority holders such as the Okpara (the head of a lineage) and the Eze-ala (priest of the earth deity) played crucial roles in law-making and arbitration. The laws enforced by these leaders were largely derived from the beliefs surrounding the ancestors and earth-goddess Ala, which reflected the community's focus on moral conduct, the preservation of property, and the prevention of calamities. Through rituals and the invocation of deities, authority holders maintained the communal order and reinforced their legitimacy through the spiritual framework inherent in the Igbo cosmology.

3) The Impact of Colonialism on Sacred Authority

The advent of colonialism marked a significant transformation for sacred authority in Igbo society. Colonial rulers replaced traditional sacred authority holders, leading to a secularisation of governance that undermined the established spiritual and ritualistic ties inherent in Igbo leadership. The introduction of Warrant Chiefs by the colonial administration diminished the respect and reverence once afforded to local leaders, as these new authorities were seen as ordinary individuals rather than divine agents. The secular judiciary proceeded to codify customary laws, stripping them of their spiritual significance, and leading to widespread disregard for these laws. This shift resulted in a surge of crime and social dislocation, reflecting a community in turmoil under the weight of imposed foreign governance structures.

4) The Crisis of Identity and The Search for Stability

The conflicts stemming from the secularisation process reached their peak in the 1920s, exemplified by events such as the Aba Women's Revolt, where traditionalists sought to reinstate the sacred authority disrupted by colonial rule. The women's movement became a catalyst for challenging colonial governance, emphasizing a return to indigenous customs and the restoration of traditional political structures. The polarization of Igbo society between traditionalists and colonial facilitators underscored the struggle for a coherent identity in the face of imposed changes. This historical context speaks to ongoing challenges in Nigeria's search for a stable political system that can accommodate its diverse cultural and spiritual heritage.

5) Conclusion

In modern Nigeria, the significance of sacred authority remains relevant as the nation grapples with the legacy of colonialism and the quest for a coherent political identity. While a return to past practices may not be feasible, lessons can be learned from the sacred codes of governance that once unified the community. By acknowledging these traditions and adapting their principles to contemporary needs, Nigeria could forge a political culture that transcends mere secular governance. Thus, while the institution of sacred authority may have declined, its underlying ideals could still inform Nigeria’s development, preventing the repetition of historical political failures and fostering a sense of community rooted in moral and ethical values.