Anambra State is Igbo of course but Anambra East/West LGA is a mix of Igbo and Igala. That's the area known as Omambala that Odenigbo often uses.
We have Igala people in Omanbala and we live peacefully with them. I love and respect Igala people and proud to call them brothers...The Igbo expression Agaba Idu originated from the Igala. Omanbala is a cultural expression...A culture which orinated from around the Omanbala river and Nri. I have already listed some cultural practices that identifies the Omanbala people.
Ide nnaa,there is what we call the Omanbala culture,which originated from the early Aguleris and Nri settlers. It's easily identifiable by our cultural practices. Omanbala chili Nze chie Ozo is a cultural melting pot. Our dialects are smooth and elegant,our music is melodic and dances are very graceful...Our wome do not dance with their bums shaking like some prostitutes. These are some of our cultural practices.
Titles/initiations... Nze na Ozo Igba Odu Igba ofala/ovala Igbu ichi
Deities/Oracles... Ogwugwu Eke,Oye Afor na Nkwo Udo IKENGA Aja ani
Music/Dance.... Ekpili Udu Ogene Egwu ota only danced by the royals The elegant beats of our ufie gongs danced by the noble Nze na Ozo Akwunechenyi drums
Masqurades.... Agaba Ijele Ulaga.
Don't let your pan Igboist ideology make you to lose your identity....You are an Omanbala firstly. Ekesia na ama ebulu naa n'Obi.
The above is the very post that sparked the fire. Now,tell me how this was offensive. I didn't say Omanbala is superior neither did I denigrate any group. Truth is these outbursts has nothing to do with my post. I can mention how many times I was attacked just because I said I am from "Anambra". There is a certain paranoia. And dare not be proud of your Anambra root else you will get a beat down. I must however say Abia people doesn't have this problem. But no amount of intimidation will deter me from promoting and celebrating my culture till eternity. My 3months old daughter has already started smiling to Ezigbo Obiligbo,Okonkwo Asaa,Egwu Obi ,Osadebe music. I will mould my offspring into a proud Omanbala children and they will tell the world takes about the Omanbala cultural elegance....Nobody can stop me!
Well then instead of giving excuses for why people hate Ndiigbo, why not just give us the meaning of the name in Yoruba or Arabic or Edo language? I just gave one reason to backup why I think Oduduwa is an Igbo name. Another's that the then Benin empire actually contained many Igbo speaking people who could even contest to become the Oba! and fight in wars for or against the leadership of the time! Even if they lost. This accounts for the mass migration of Igbo speaking people from the Benin empire. Think of Ezechima, Akalaka, Ochichi, et.c. with their followers as well. Oduduwa might have been part of this exodus but chose to go west rather than east or south.e
You're just being a typical Igbo man. Very soon, majority of Igbos will start claiming him using your analogy. It's very strange. What a people. I know you people too well.
For me i do not think and will never believe that Anioma people are igbos. Anioma people may be culturally related to igbos, but they are not igbos in the real sense.
I can see that most igbos here who have never really visited Anioma land in their entire lives are here concluding Anioma people to be igbos. My Mother is from Ubulu-uku in Anochia and she does not accept to be adressed as igbo, likewise most of her family members do not accept igbo tag.
Identity is not by force i think. People should be allowed to choose their identity
OdenigboAroli: Ide nnaa,there is what we call the Omanbala culture,which originated from the early Aguleris and Nri settlers. It's easily identifiable by our cultural practices. Omanbala chili Nze chie Ozo is a cultural melting pot. Our dialects are smooth and elegant,our music is melodic and dances are very graceful...Our wome do not dance with their bums shaking like some prostitutes. These are some of our cultural practices.
Titles/initiations... Nze na Ozo Igba Odu Igba ofala/ovala Igbu ichi
Deities/Oracles... Ogwugwu Eke,Oye Afor na Nkwo Udo IKENGA Aja ani
Music/Dance.... Ekpili Udu Ogene Egwu ota only danced by the royals The elegant beats of our ufie gongs danced by the noble Nze na Ozo Akwunechenyi drums
Masqurades.... Agaba Ijele Ulaga.
Don't let your pan Igboist ideology make you to lose your identity....You are an Omanbala firstly. Ekesia na ama ebulu naa n'Obi.
The above is the very post that sparked the fire. Now,tell me how this was offensive. I didn't say Omanbala is superior neither did I denigrate any group. Truth is these outbursts has nothing to do with my post. I can mention how many times I was attacked just because I said I am from "Anambra". There is a certain paranoia. And dare not be proud of your Anambra root else you will get a beat down. I must however say Abia people doesn't have this problem. But no amount of intimidation will deter me from promoting and celebrating my culture till eternity. My 3months old daughter has already started smiling to Ezigbo Obiligbo,Okonkwo Asaa,Egwu Obi ,Osadebe music. I will mould my offspring into a proud Omanbala children and they will tell the world takes about the Omanbala cultural elegance....Nobody can stop me!
I came across this video of Nnewi women dancing. There was some bum shaking. They didn't look like prostitutes to me, neither do other dancers from other Igbo groups who dance with their hips.
Meeen ndi igbo.....you guys are very strange. After una go say na Afonja dey "divide and rule" una. I must book mark this thread. The next time anybody screams afonja as the cause of their problems I will direct them here.
You peeps have enough problems on your own. You don't need any help from anybody outside to divide you. You are doing a perfect job for yourself.
For me i do not think and will never believe that Anioma people are igbos. Anioma people may be culturally related to igbos, but they are not igbos in the real sense.
genieluv, you must understand that Agbor, Ubulu-Ukwu, Ogwashi-Ukwu, Ndokwa and Aboh areas are all Igbo. You are from the Western part of Igboland, and you are Igbo. Do not be brainwashed of your Igbo identity. Do not let liars deceive you. Enemies of the Igbo nation have brainwashed some Igbo of the South-South to believe that they are different from the Igbo of the South-East. Igbo leaders have also contributed to the miseducation and division of the Igbo people. I call for a fundamental re-orientation of the Igbo psyche so that we can collectively move forward as one people. That is why I solidly agree with Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Prof. Chike Edozien (the Eze of Asaba) who insisted that the entire Igboland should be grouped together in one geopolitical region, as such would ensure Igbo unity and facilitate the rapid development of the Igbo nation.
genieluv, you must understand that Agbor, Ubulu-Ukwu, Ogwashi-Ukwu, Ndokwa and Aboh areas are all Igbo. You are from the Western part of Igboland, and you are Igbo. Do not be brainwashed of your Igbo identity. Do not let liars deceive you. Enemies of the Igbo nation have brainwashed some Igbo of the South-South to believe that they are different from the Igbo of the South-East. Igbo leaders have also contributed to the miseducation and division of the Igbo people. I call for a fundamental re-orientation of the Igbo psyche so that we can collectively move forward as one people. That is why I solidly agree with Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Prof. Chike Edozien (the Eze of Asaba) who insisted that the entire Igboland should be grouped together in one geopolitical region, as such would ensure Igbo unity and facilitate the rapid development of the Igbo nation.
Well, for as long as i know, most igbos do not regard Anioma people as true igbos unless when it comes to issues of their own favour. The reason why most anioma people do not see themselves as igbo is because the characters of both people are very different and the cultural outlook and view of life too differs. There is this character that the real igbos posses that we anioma people do not posses. Even though i did not grow up in Anioma (my father's original place), i can still tell the difference between real anioma people and igbos whenever i come across them. Igbos have to change their ways and negative lifestyles before we Anioma people can ever think of accepting full igbo identity, consciousness and pride. Though it's not as if we hate igbos o, some of them are very nice but i don't just know, there is this distance between both divides.
Well, for as long as i know, most igbos do not regard Anioma people as true igbos unless when it comes to issues of their own favour. The reason why most anioma people do not see themselves as igbo is because the characters of both people are very different and the cultural outlook and view of life too differs. There is this character that the real igbos posses that we anioma people do not posses. Even though i did not grow up in Anioma (my father's original place), i can still tell the difference between real anioma people and igbos whenever i come across them. Igbos have to change their ways and negative lifestyles before we Anioma people can ever think of accepting full igbo identity, consciousness and pride. Though it's not as if we hate igbos o, some of them are very nice but i don't just know, there is this distance between both divides.
The bolded is the problem. Infact,that was the point Donarozzi was trying to pass across which totally went over your head. There's no particular negative lifestyle of the Igbo people. That's the kind of statement you get from some envious Yoruba people. Unfortunately,your people have picked it up and now that is the nonsense your elders(parents inclusive) feed you with. The same nonsense they were fed with soon after the war. The same nonsense you'll probably feed your kids. And the circle continues. Complete nonsense!!! Give us an example of the negative lifestyle peculiar to only Igbo people?
coolitempa: Let us be honest...most of anioma is not ibo but Benin.....ibos have long migrated to these areas and taken over the demographics....but they are descendants of the Benins...
spot on!!!! Likewise The ppl of igbanke. The migration of igbo ppl into their land caused the whole ish. My father told me that wen he was growin up they basically spoke bini until some migrants(igbos) who came to d community to teach and trade.
suwalee: spot on!!!! Likewise The ppl of igbanke. The migration of igbo ppl into their land caused the whole ish. My father told me that wen he was growin up they basically spoke bini until some migrants(igbos) who came to d community to teach and trade.
Igbo people must be very mighty indeed, to influence and change your language in less than a century.
suwalee: spot on!!!! Likewise The ppl of igbanke. The migration of igbo ppl into their land caused the whole ish. My father told me that wen he was growin up they basically spoke bini until some migrants(igbos) who came to d community to teach and trade.
teach and trade is not enough reasons to abandon your Benin ancestry.people trade with people of different backgrounds all over the world but doesn't affect their culture and language not that we care anyway is a simple logic
suwalee: spot on!!!! Likewise The ppl of igbanke. The migration of igbo ppl into their land caused the whole ish. My father told me that wen he was growin up they basically spoke bini until some migrants(igbos) who came to d community to teach and trade.
Ordinarily your ignorance deserved no response from me or Igbos in general but I present to you the full petition written by Igbanke people. The Igbanke is rather an evidence of a prehistoric Igbo settlement conquered by Benin empire of old.
Now read patiently as written by Igbanke people.
INTRODUCTION
Language and culture are two of the most fundamental factors that unite and identify a people . A people and their race go into extinction once their language is dead. Once a group of people who share similar linguistic and cultural affinity are dismembered or have other language and culture super-imposed on them, the resultant effect is gradual, systematic and eventual disintegration of the people, their language and culture.A classical example of a people who have suffered aforementioned linguistic and cultural annihilation were the Sects. Sects, the original owner of the present-day England were, in the 4th century, attacked by the three Germanic tribes- Jutes, Saxons and Anglo-Saxons. The imposition of the dialects of the three Germanic tribes led to the total extinction of the Sectic language.Though, the descendants of the Sects are still in England, but their linguistic and cultural identity have gone into oblivion.To this extent, the people of Igbanke in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo state are face the Sects experience. Igbanke is one of the few Ika-speaking communities in Edo state. For this singular reason, they are subjected to all forms of discriminations and marginalization.
STATEMENT OF FACTS ON THE SUBJECT MATTER
The language and culture of the good people of Igbanke are losing their envious identity and relevance in culture-linguistic market-place in Edo state in particular and Nigeria at large.Several reasons are evidently present to support the fears and anxiety of the people of Igbanke that our identity as a people would go into sudden extinction if urgent measures are not quickly taken to address our emasculation by Bini language dominance. The following points support the facts of the subject matter:1) Igbanke is one of the few communities in Edo state that speak Ika language2) Igbanke is located in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo state.3) Igbanke, by name is in Orhionmwon LGA, but geographically, we do not share common boundary with any community in the council4) From the eastern flank, Igbanke shares common boundary with Mbiri, an Ika speaking community in Delta stae, from west, it’s bounded by Oghada, another Ika speaking community in Uhunmwode LGA in Edo state. In the northern sphere, Igbanke has boundary with Ekpon, Ika speaking community in Igueben LGA while from the south, it has Agbor and Oza-Nogogo, Ika communities in Delta state as neighbours.5) Igbanke is in Edo south senatorial district6) Igbanke people and community came under the Bini empire during the latter’s expantionist programme.7) Most of other Ika speaking communities that were conquered by Bini empire same time with Igbanke have gotten their independence in Delta state while Igbanke, Oghada, Otobaye, Iru, Ekpon and Ogbeka etc are selfishly scattered in three local government areas with the attendant linguistic discrimination and political marginalization. Igbanke are gradually losing their linguistic and cultural identity as a result of our involuntary affiliation to the Bini language-speakers dominated Orhionmwon LGA.
ISSUES FROM THE STATEMENT OF FACTS
Consequent upon the facts drawn from the subject matter, some issues could be deduced to support Igbanke search for linguistic and cultural identity. These issues would go a long way in justifying our position.1)Igbanke was deliberately, but selfishly carved into Edo state during the 1991 state creation irrespective of the linguistic difference between the people of Igbanke and the dominant Bini speaking population of the state.2) Over 96% of Ika speaking communities in the defunct Bendel state were carved into Delta state while Igbanke and a handful other Ika speaking communities were severed into Edo state where they are presently subjected to acute linguistic and sundry discriminations3) Because of linguistic factor, the people of Igbanke feel more at home with their kiths and kins (Ika speaking people) in Edo and Delta states.4) Igbanke is made up of six (6) autonomous clans: Ake/Obiogba, Idumu-Odin, Igbontor, Oligie, Omolua and Ottah. These clans were governed by traditional rulers called ‘’Eze or Obi’’. These terms were of Ika origin, but have been forcefully changed to ‘’Enogie’’ a Bini term by the conquering Binis.5) Our ancestral heritage like language, names and beliefs are being systematically destroyed by the domineering power of the Binis.
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT OF ISSUES RAISED
1)Most Igbanke indigenes who have Ika ancestral names like, “Emeka”, “Maduka”, “Chukwuka’’, “Chinyere”, “Amaka and “Ogorchukwu etc are often confronted with all forms of harrowing experiences when there are needs to visit our council headquarters, Abudu to process one official documents or the other. We are often denied the issuance of documents like, ‘’Certificate of Local Government of origin’’, Protest Letter’’, To Whom it May Concern’’ etc on the guise that we are Igbos not Binis.2) Those who have the likes of the Ika aforementioned names, but can speak Bini language are rarely subjected to the above embarrassments and discriminations. This act goes a long way to vindicate our fear that there is a subtle, but carefully planned agenda to make us lose and abandon our ancestral linguistic and cultural heritage.3) In order to escape from these unnecessary embarrassments, some have no other option left than to change their identity from Ika to Bini names.4) Today, we, the good people of Igbanke are gradually losing our once envied linguistic and cultural identity.5) Some of the eminent sons and daughters of Igbanke, whom out of their outstanding contributions to the development of the community, were recognized and given chieftaincy titles had had such titles changed from their original Ika origin to Bini equivalence. For example, few years ago, one of our sons who addressed himself as “Chief Orike-Eze” in Oba of Benin palace was shamefully harassed, insulted and forcefully forced, right in the palace to change the title to its Bini version. According to the palace, the title, “Orike-Eze” had its origin from Ika and Igbo nations.5) Most times, when we have cause to attend meetings with the Binis in our local government area or senatorial district, deliberations are often conducted in Bini in language without considering the fact that the people of Igbanke in such meeting neither speak nor understand the language. Often than not, when we attend such meetings, we left the venue more confused than we were before we went.6) In Edo state, Igbanke is only tolerated, not respected, seen, but not accepted. Today, in Edo state, plans are underway by the state Ministry of Education to introduce the teaching of Bini language in Primary and Secondary schools across Edo south senatorial district including Igbanke. Unfortunately, our indigenous language, Ika is not in any way considered qualified and appropriate to be taught in schools in Igbanke. To us, its another deliberate attempt to send our linguistic identity into extinction.7) Our people have also suffered several inexplicable discriminations when it comes to political appointments. During the 2013 Edo state local government elections, one of our sons, Mr. Peter Ikem was refused to contest the chairmanship position in Orhionmwon local government area. Reason? His surname, “Ikem” was an Igbo, not Bini name.
PRAYERS/ RELIEFS SOUGHT
Sir, based on the foregoing, we therefore, solemnly ask for the folling:1) A local government be created that would comprise all Ika speaking communities scattered in Orhionmwon, Uhunmwode and Igueben LGAs of Edo state. Some of the Ika speaking communities in Edo stateinclude:Orhionmwon LGA ----Igbanke, Iru, Ohezenaka, Otobaye, UgbekaUhunmwode LGA ----- OghadaIgueben LGA ------- Ekpon2) Where, for any reason, creation of a local government area that would consist all Ika speaking communities is not in the immediate possible or feasible, we therefore ask that Igbanke be severed from Edo state and merged with our kiths and kins in Ika south local government area in Delta state.3) The people of Igbanke should be seen, recognized and accepted as Ika people residing in Edo.4) That Igbanke people, based on our forceful membership of Edo state, reserved the natural and inalienable right to decide, at any time, either to continue our membership with the Binis in Edo state or join our Ika kiths and kins in Delta state.
CONCLUSION
Igbanke is an Ika speaking community in Orhionmwon local government, Edo stateWe, the people Igbanke are gradually losing our linguistic and cultural identity as a result of our forceful membership with the Binis through conquest.If urgent measures are not taken, our linguistic and cultural identity would sooner than later go into sudden extinction. In order to avoid the impending extermination of our race, we therefore, ask that a local government area be created that would consist of Igbanke and other Ika speaking communities in Edo state.Alternatively, if local government creation is not feasible or possible, Igbanke, should therefore, be severed from Edo state and merged with Ika south local government area in Delta state.
Ordinarily your ignorance deserved no response from me or Igbos in general but I present to you the full petition written by Igbanke people. The Igbanke is rather an evidence of a prehistoric Igbo settlement conquered by Benin empire of old.
Now read patiently as written by Igbanke people.
INTRODUCTION
Language and culture are two of the most fundamental factors that unite and identify a people . A people and their race go into extinction once their language is dead. Once a group of people who share similar linguistic and cultural affinity are dismembered or have other language and culture super-imposed on them, the resultant effect is gradual, systematic and eventual disintegration of the people, their language and culture.A classical example of a people who have suffered aforementioned linguistic and cultural annihilation were the Sects. Sects, the original owner of the present-day England were, in the 4th century, attacked by the three Germanic tribes- Jutes, Saxons and Anglo-Saxons. The imposition of the dialects of the three Germanic tribes led to the total extinction of the Sectic language.Though, the descendants of the Sects are still in England, but their linguistic and cultural identity have gone into oblivion.To this extent, the people of Igbanke in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo state are face the Sects experience. Igbanke is one of the few Ika-speaking communities in Edo state. For this singular reason, they are subjected to all forms of discriminations and marginalization.
STATEMENT OF FACTS ON THE SUBJECT MATTER
The language and culture of the good people of Igbanke are losing their envious identity and relevance in culture-linguistic market-place in Edo state in particular and Nigeria at large.Several reasons are evidently present to support the fears and anxiety of the people of Igbanke that our identity as a people would go into sudden extinction if urgent measures are not quickly taken to address our emasculation by Bini language dominance. The following points support the facts of the subject matter:1) Igbanke is one of the few communities in Edo state that speak Ika language2) Igbanke is located in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo state.3) Igbanke, by name is in Orhionmwon LGA, but geographically, we do not share common boundary with any community in the council4) From the eastern flank, Igbanke shares common boundary with Mbiri, an Ika speaking community in Delta stae, from west, it’s bounded by Oghada, another Ika speaking community in Uhunmwode LGA in Edo state. In the northern sphere, Igbanke has boundary with Ekpon, Ika speaking community in Igueben LGA while from the south, it has Agbor and Oza-Nogogo, Ika communities in Delta state as neighbours.5) Igbanke is in Edo south senatorial district6) Igbanke people and community came under the Bini empire during the latter’s expantionist programme.7) Most of other Ika speaking communities that were conquered by Bini empire same time with Igbanke have gotten their independence in Delta state while Igbanke, Oghada, Otobaye, Iru, Ekpon and Ogbeka etc are selfishly scattered in three local government areas with the attendant linguistic discrimination and political marginalization. Igbanke are gradually losing their linguistic and cultural identity as a result of our involuntary affiliation to the Bini language-speakers dominated Orhionmwon LGA.
ISSUES FROM THE STATEMENT OF FACTS
Consequent upon the facts drawn from the subject matter, some issues could be deduced to support Igbanke search for linguistic and cultural identity. These issues would go a long way in justifying our position.1)Igbanke was deliberately, but selfishly carved into Edo state during the 1991 state creation irrespective of the linguistic difference between the people of Igbanke and the dominant Bini speaking population of the state.2) Over 96% of Ika speaking communities in the defunct Bendel state were carved into Delta state while Igbanke and a handful other Ika speaking communities were severed into Edo state where they are presently subjected to acute linguistic and sundry discriminations3) Because of linguistic factor, the people of Igbanke feel more at home with their kiths and kins (Ika speaking people) in Edo and Delta states.4) Igbanke is made up of six (6) autonomous clans: Ake/Obiogba, Idumu-Odin, Igbontor, Oligie, Omolua and Ottah. These clans were governed by traditional rulers called ‘’Eze or Obi’’. These terms were of Ika origin, but have been forcefully changed to ‘’Enogie’’ a Bini term by the conquering Binis.5) Our ancestral heritage like language, names and beliefs are being systematically destroyed by the domineering power of the Binis.
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT OF ISSUES RAISED
1)Most Igbanke indigenes who have Ika ancestral names like, “Emeka”, “Maduka”, “Chukwuka’’, “Chinyere”, “Amaka and “Ogorchukwu etc are often confronted with all forms of harrowing experiences when there are needs to visit our council headquarters, Abudu to process one official documents or the other. We are often denied the issuance of documents like, ‘’Certificate of Local Government of origin’’, Protest Letter’’, To Whom it May Concern’’ etc on the guise that we are Igbos not Binis.2) Those who have the likes of the Ika aforementioned names, but can speak Bini language are rarely subjected to the above embarrassments and discriminations. This act goes a long way to vindicate our fear that there is a subtle, but carefully planned agenda to make us lose and abandon our ancestral linguistic and cultural heritage.3) In order to escape from these unnecessary embarrassments, some have no other option left than to change their identity from Ika to Bini names.4) Today, we, the good people of Igbanke are gradually losing our once envied linguistic and cultural identity.5) Some of the eminent sons and daughters of Igbanke, whom out of their outstanding contributions to the development of the community, were recognized and given chieftaincy titles had had such titles changed from their original Ika origin to Bini equivalence. For example, few years ago, one of our sons who addressed himself as “Chief Orike-Eze” in Oba of Benin palace was shamefully harassed, insulted and forcefully forced, right in the palace to change the title to its Bini version. According to the palace, the title, “Orike-Eze” had its origin from Ika and Igbo nations.5) Most times, when we have cause to attend meetings with the Binis in our local government area or senatorial district, deliberations are often conducted in Bini in language without considering the fact that the people of Igbanke in such meeting neither speak nor understand the language. Often than not, when we attend such meetings, we left the venue more confused than we were before we went.6) In Edo state, Igbanke is only tolerated, not respected, seen, but not accepted. Today, in Edo state, plans are underway by the state Ministry of Education to introduce the teaching of Bini language in Primary and Secondary schools across Edo south senatorial district including Igbanke. Unfortunately, our indigenous language, Ika is not in any way considered qualified and appropriate to be taught in schools in Igbanke. To us, its another deliberate attempt to send our linguistic identity into extinction.7) Our people have also suffered several inexplicable discriminations when it comes to political appointments. During the 2013 Edo state local government elections, one of our sons, Mr. Peter Ikem was refused to contest the chairmanship position in Orhionmwon local government area. Reason? His surname, “Ikem” was an Igbo, not Bini name.
PRAYERS/ RELIEFS SOUGHT
Sir, based on the foregoing, we therefore, solemnly ask for the folling:1) A local government be created that would comprise all Ika speaking communities scattered in Orhionmwon, Uhunmwode and Igueben LGAs of Edo state. Some of the Ika speaking communities in Edo stateinclude:Orhionmwon LGA ----Igbanke, Iru, Ohezenaka, Otobaye, UgbekaUhunmwode LGA ----- OghadaIgueben LGA ------- Ekpon2) Where, for any reason, creation of a local government area that would consist all Ika speaking communities is not in the immediate possible or feasible, we therefore ask that Igbanke be severed from Edo state and merged with our kiths and kins in Ika south local government area in Delta state.3) The people of Igbanke should be seen, recognized and accepted as Ika people residing in Edo.4) That Igbanke people, based on our forceful membership of Edo state, reserved the natural and inalienable right to decide, at any time, either to continue our membership with the Binis in Edo state or join our Ika kiths and kins in Delta state.
CONCLUSION
Igbanke is an Ika speaking community in Orhionmwon local government, Edo stateWe, the people Igbanke are gradually losing our linguistic and cultural identity as a result of our forceful membership with the Binis through conquest.If urgent measures are not taken, our linguistic and cultural identity would sooner than later go into sudden extinction. In order to avoid the impending extermination of our race, we therefore, ask that a local government area be created that would consist of Igbanke and other Ika speaking communities in Edo state.Alternatively, if local government creation is not feasible or possible, Igbanke, should therefore, be severed from Edo state and merged with Ika south local government area in Delta state.
suwalee: Its in d same ika community they bear names like bosede,adebayo,omosefe,adesuwa so plz don't make names as an excuse to add ika ppl as igbo really
What you just quoted was an official petition by Igbanke people to the FG. Read it very well and know their stand not propaganda.
suwalee: Its in d same ika community they bear names like bosede,adebayo,omosefe,adesuwa so plz don't make names as an excuse to add ika ppl as igbo really
Those names you mentioned are immigrants, like you, not indigines.
For me i do not think and will never believe that Anioma people are igbos. Anioma people may be culturally related to igbos, but they are not igbos in the real sense.
I can see that most igbos here who have never really visited Anioma land in their entire lives are here concluding Anioma people to be igbos. My Mother is from Ubulu-uku in Anochia and she does not accept to be adressed as igbo, likewise most of her family members do not accept igbo tag.
Identity is not by force i think. People should be allowed to choose their identity
Miss, nobody is forcing you to choose Igbo identity! I don't know how else to say this so that it sticks. You are free to claim whatever you want to be. All we are saying is that the majority of Anioma people (98%) are and have on several occasions acknowledged their Igbo identity. The problem comes when a microscopic few of you (2%), in your attempt to remain relevant in Bini politics and Niger delta oil politics, try to rope the majority Igbo's in Anioma into your identity crisis.
But I always laugh at you lots because even in Benin city, Bini people know and identify you as who you really are--Igbos!
My closest friend in school happens to be from igbanke in Edo state. The guy has made it clear to me that the reason why some of you deny Igbo is because you want to remain relevant in Edo and delta politics, and I kind of understand because knowing the level of tribal bigotry in Nigeria, people like you (ika people) who were carved into states where you are in the minority will always seek out means of becoming relevant in the affairs of the state, even if it means denying your roots.
This why it is very necessary that the proposed Anioma state creation comes to reality so that you guys can have a state of your own where you will not be identified as minority.
For now, you can keep on your unfortunately fruitless efforts to force yourselves on the Binis.
The bolded is the problem. Infact,that was the point Donarozzi was trying to pass across which totally went over your head. There's no particular negative lifestyle of the Igbo people. That's the kind of statement you get from some envious Yoruba people. Unfortunately,your people have picked it up and now that is the nonsense your elders(parents inclusive) feed you with. The same nonsense they were fed with soon after the war. The same nonsense you'll probably feed your kids. And the circle continues. Complete nonsense!!! Give us an example of the negative lifestyle peculiar to only Igbo people?
It seems like my comment really pissed you off. LoL. This is an example of what am talking of. Anger issues at the slightest offence. Many of you are like this. You guys boast a lot and are very pompous, very proud, very arrogant, temperamental, domineering and extremely intolerant unlike our people. Money is worshipped in most south eastern societies against core human values. Am sorry if i sound too indiscreet but that is just what i have observed. My friend, it's not just about what our parents tell us, it's about what we experience ourselves, we are not dummies, we interract with Igbos on daily basis and we even intermarry and date each other. The only group of south-east people i think are like we Aniomas are Nsukka and Onitsha peeeps, but Anambra, Imo and Abia are a no no.
suwalee: spot on!!!! Likewise The ppl of igbanke. The migration of igbo ppl into their land caused the whole ish. My father told me that wen he was growin up they basically spoke bini until some migrants(igbos) who came to d community to teach and trade.
No sis, i don't think it is that way. Most Anioma people are of mixed origins, some of our ancestors came igbo land, some from Bini and others from Igala, Esan and even yoruba, but eventually the igbo dialect came to displace the others. I think that was what actually happened
From my own perspective i don't think it would be impossible or wrong for we Anioma, Ikwerre and other Igboid groups in the South-South to unite with the south-east igbos, just that it could be done with a new independent association with another name but not the name IGBO. Most South-south ibo speaking tribes see igbos as relatives but i don't think all our people will ever fully accept to adress themselves as IGBOS.
Uniben4sure: Miss, nobody is forcing you to choose Igbo identity! I don't know how else to say this so that it sticks. You are free to claim whatever you want to be. All we are saying is that the majority of Anioma people (98%) are and have on several occasions acknowledged their Igbo identity. The problem comes when a microscopic few of you (2%), in your attempt to remain relevant in Bini politics and Niger delta oil politics, try to rope the majority Igbo's in Anioma into your identity crisis.
But I always laugh at you lots because even in Benin city, Bini people know and identify you as who you really are--Igbos!
My closest friend in school happens to be from igbanke in Edo state. The guy has made it clear to me that the reason why some of you deny Igbo is because you want to remain relevant in Edo and delta politics, and I kind of understand because knowing the level of tribal bigotry in Nigeria, people like you (ika people) who were carved into states where you are in the minority will always seek out means of becoming relevant in the affairs of the state, even if it means denying your roots.
This why it is very necessary that the proposed Anioma state creation comes to reality so that you guys can have a state of your own where you will not be identified as minority.
For now, you can keep on your unfortunately fruitless efforts to force yourselves on the Binis.
Shalom!
Well, its not the way you look at it. FYI, First of all, my part of Anioma is Anochia and not Ika. Though we are all one.
Yes, many of us Anioma people do accept to be called Igbo, but just that it only happens occasionally. The same Anioma people that will tell you they are igbos today, tomorrow will tell another person that they are not. We are just somehow in between. It's like we jump in and out LoL. I myself have always wondered and questioned some of my uncles why it is that way but yet no responsible answer.
Ordinarily your ignorance deserved no response from me or Igbos in general but I present to you the full petition written by Igbanke people. The Igbanke is rather an evidence of a prehistoric Igbo settlement conquered by Benin empire of old.
Now read patiently as written by Igbanke people.
INTRODUCTION
Language and culture are two of the most fundamental factors that unite and identify a people . A people and their race go into extinction once their language is dead. Once a group of people who share similar linguistic and cultural affinity are dismembered or have other language and culture super-imposed on them, the resultant effect is gradual, systematic and eventual disintegration of the people, their language and culture.A classical example of a people who have suffered aforementioned linguistic and cultural annihilation were the Sects. Sects, the original owner of the present-day England were, in the 4th century, attacked by the three Germanic tribes- Jutes, Saxons and Anglo-Saxons. The imposition of the dialects of the three Germanic tribes led to the total extinction of the Sectic language.Though, the descendants of the Sects are still in England, but their linguistic and cultural identity have gone into oblivion.To this extent, the people of Igbanke in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo state are face the Sects experience. Igbanke is one of the few Ika-speaking communities in Edo state. For this singular reason, they are subjected to all forms of discriminations and marginalization.
STATEMENT OF FACTS ON THE SUBJECT MATTER
The language and culture of the good people of Igbanke are losing their envious identity and relevance in culture-linguistic market-place in Edo state in particular and Nigeria at large.Several reasons are evidently present to support the fears and anxiety of the people of Igbanke that our identity as a people would go into sudden extinction if urgent measures are not quickly taken to address our emasculation by Bini language dominance. The following points support the facts of the subject matter:1) Igbanke is one of the few communities in Edo state that speak Ika language2) Igbanke is located in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo state.3) Igbanke, by name is in Orhionmwon LGA, but geographically, we do not share common boundary with any community in the council4) From the eastern flank, Igbanke shares common boundary with Mbiri, an Ika speaking community in Delta stae, from west, it’s bounded by Oghada, another Ika speaking community in Uhunmwode LGA in Edo state. In the northern sphere, Igbanke has boundary with Ekpon, Ika speaking community in Igueben LGA while from the south, it has Agbor and Oza-Nogogo, Ika communities in Delta state as neighbours.5) Igbanke is in Edo south senatorial district6) Igbanke people and community came under the Bini empire during the latter’s expantionist programme.7) Most of other Ika speaking communities that were conquered by Bini empire same time with Igbanke have gotten their independence in Delta state while Igbanke, Oghada, Otobaye, Iru, Ekpon and Ogbeka etc are selfishly scattered in three local government areas with the attendant linguistic discrimination and political marginalization. Igbanke are gradually losing their linguistic and cultural identity as a result of our involuntary affiliation to the Bini language-speakers dominated Orhionmwon LGA.
ISSUES FROM THE STATEMENT OF FACTS
Consequent upon the facts drawn from the subject matter, some issues could be deduced to support Igbanke search for linguistic and cultural identity. These issues would go a long way in justifying our position.1)Igbanke was deliberately, but selfishly carved into Edo state during the 1991 state creation irrespective of the linguistic difference between the people of Igbanke and the dominant Bini speaking population of the state.2) Over 96% of Ika speaking communities in the defunct Bendel state were carved into Delta state while Igbanke and a handful other Ika speaking communities were severed into Edo state where they are presently subjected to acute linguistic and sundry discriminations3) Because of linguistic factor, the people of Igbanke feel more at home with their kiths and kins (Ika speaking people) in Edo and Delta states.4) Igbanke is made up of six (6) autonomous clans: Ake/Obiogba, Idumu-Odin, Igbontor, Oligie, Omolua and Ottah. These clans were governed by traditional rulers called ‘’Eze or Obi’’. These terms were of Ika origin, but have been forcefully changed to ‘’Enogie’’ a Bini term by the conquering Binis.5) Our ancestral heritage like language, names and beliefs are being systematically destroyed by the domineering power of the Binis.
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT OF ISSUES RAISED
1)Most Igbanke indigenes who have Ika ancestral names like, “Emeka”, “Maduka”, “Chukwuka’’, “Chinyere”, “Amaka and “Ogorchukwu etc are often confronted with all forms of harrowing experiences when there are needs to visit our council headquarters, Abudu to process one official documents or the other. We are often denied the issuance of documents like, ‘’Certificate of Local Government of origin’’, Protest Letter’’, To Whom it May Concern’’ etc on the guise that we are Igbos not Binis.2) Those who have the likes of the Ika aforementioned names, but can speak Bini language are rarely subjected to the above embarrassments and discriminations. This act goes a long way to vindicate our fear that there is a subtle, but carefully planned agenda to make us lose and abandon our ancestral linguistic and cultural heritage.3) In order to escape from these unnecessary embarrassments, some have no other option left than to change their identity from Ika to Bini names.4) Today, we, the good people of Igbanke are gradually losing our once envied linguistic and cultural identity.5) Some of the eminent sons and daughters of Igbanke, whom out of their outstanding contributions to the development of the community, were recognized and given chieftaincy titles had had such titles changed from their original Ika origin to Bini equivalence. For example, few years ago, one of our sons who addressed himself as “Chief Orike-Eze” in Oba of Benin palace was shamefully harassed, insulted and forcefully forced, right in the palace to change the title to its Bini version. According to the palace, the title, “Orike-Eze” had its origin from Ika and Igbo nations.5) Most times, when we have cause to attend meetings with the Binis in our local government area or senatorial district, deliberations are often conducted in Bini in language without considering the fact that the people of Igbanke in such meeting neither speak nor understand the language. Often than not, when we attend such meetings, we left the venue more confused than we were before we went.6) In Edo state, Igbanke is only tolerated, not respected, seen, but not accepted. Today, in Edo state, plans are underway by the state Ministry of Education to introduce the teaching of Bini language in Primary and Secondary schools across Edo south senatorial district including Igbanke. Unfortunately, our indigenous language, Ika is not in any way considered qualified and appropriate to be taught in schools in Igbanke. To us, its another deliberate attempt to send our linguistic identity into extinction.7) Our people have also suffered several inexplicable discriminations when it comes to political appointments. During the 2013 Edo state local government elections, one of our sons, Mr. Peter Ikem was refused to contest the chairmanship position in Orhionmwon local government area. Reason? His surname, “Ikem” was an Igbo, not Bini name.
PRAYERS/ RELIEFS SOUGHT
Sir, based on the foregoing, we therefore, solemnly ask for the folling:1) A local government be created that would comprise all Ika speaking communities scattered in Orhionmwon, Uhunmwode and Igueben LGAs of Edo state. Some of the Ika speaking communities in Edo stateinclude:Orhionmwon LGA ----Igbanke, Iru, Ohezenaka, Otobaye, UgbekaUhunmwode LGA ----- OghadaIgueben LGA ------- Ekpon2) Where, for any reason, creation of a local government area that would consist all Ika speaking communities is not in the immediate possible or feasible, we therefore ask that Igbanke be severed from Edo state and merged with our kiths and kins in Ika south local government area in Delta state.3) The people of Igbanke should be seen, recognized and accepted as Ika people residing in Edo.4) That Igbanke people, based on our forceful membership of Edo state, reserved the natural and inalienable right to decide, at any time, either to continue our membership with the Binis in Edo state or join our Ika kiths and kins in Delta state.
CONCLUSION
Igbanke is an Ika speaking community in Orhionmwon local government, Edo stateWe, the people Igbanke are gradually losing our linguistic and cultural identity as a result of our forceful membership with the Binis through conquest.If urgent measures are not taken, our linguistic and cultural identity would sooner than later go into sudden extinction. In order to avoid the impending extermination of our race, we therefore, ask that a local government area be created that would consist of Igbanke and other Ika speaking communities in Edo state.Alternatively, if local government creation is not feasible or possible, Igbanke, should therefore, be severed from Edo state and merged with Ika south local government area in Delta state.
WHAT A SENSELESS POST. NON OF THOSE NAMES MENTIONED THERE IS AN IKA NAME. DO YOU MEAN TO TELL ME THAT IGBANKE PEOPLE DON'T KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN IKA AN IGBO NAME? ANOTHER FABRICATED POST. SMH!!!
Well, its not the way you look at it. FYI, First of all, my part of Anioma is Anochia and not Ika. Though we are all one.
Yes, many of us Anioma people do accept to be called Igbo, but just that it only happens occasionally. The same Anioma people that will tell you they are igbos today, tomorrow will tell another person that they are not. We are just somehow in between. It's like we jump in and out LoL. I myself have always wondered and questioned some of my uncles why it is that way but yet no responsible answer.
The reason is simply political! Once Anioma state is created and your people are now independent from the majority tribes in Edo and Delta states, those uncles of yours will embrace their Igbo identity. Their denying Igbo is sort of a survival strategy in Edo and delta states.
This whole issue was caused by the domineering Bini empire of those days. Same thing was done in yorubaland up to Lagos but during the periods of state creation, those areas in yorubaland conquered by the Bini empire were rightly carved into Yoruba states. Same was not done about the Igbo's in Edo and Delta states. It's all a ploy to make you lose your Igbo identity.
No sis, i don't think it is that way. Most Anioma people are of mixed origins, some of our ancestors came igbo land, some from Bini and others from Igala, Esan and even yoruba, but eventually the igbo dialect came to displace the others. I think that was what actually happened
Uniben4sure: The reason is simply political! Once Anioma state is created and your people are now independent from the majority tribes in Edo and Delta states, those uncles of yours will embrace their Igbo identity. Their denying Igbo is sort of a survival strategy in Edo and delta states.
This whole issue was caused by the domineering Bini empire of those days. Same thing was done in yorubaland up to Lagos but during the periods of state creation, those areas in yorubaland conquered by the Bini empire were rightly carved into Yoruba states. Same was not done about the Igbo's in Edo and Delta states. It's all a ploy to make you lose your Igbo identity.
You have a point but i think all these divisions started with the colonial masters, they classified all Nigerian grouls at the left side of the Niger as Western Nigeria and since then the destiny of our people has been tied to other western Niger Nigerian groups and not Eastern Nigeria. The river Niger is just the big gap between us.
I'd be glad if our people are granted Anioma state but i really do not see how this will make us proudly identify as igbos unless Anioma state is added to the South-east. Ikas, Ndokwas, Anochias and Oshimilis are somehow united because of the fact that we do not want the other tribes to see us as minorities and we want to have a greater say. I bet you that once we are in our own state, clannish divisions will come in, Ikas will be against Anochias and Oshimilis will be against Ndokwas on issues like who will produce Governor, Deputy, Speaker, minister e.t.c. That's why a part of me still prefers we remain in Delta state.
All anioma people, Ika, ndokwa and Enuani usually have identity issues and this is something i will not deny. Some of us accept being igbos, many others reject it and some really do not care or are are confused/in between (like me, LoL). The only difference is that you have more igbo denials in the Ika and Ndokwa axis than in the Anochia/Oshimili axis.
suwalee: see go to any ika person and speak the normal igbo language my dear they don't understand it I'm telling u
No, my community is quite close to ikas. The average ika will understand central Ibo but he cannot reply unless he has lived with other Ibo speakers for a longtime. Same thing with we anochias their neighbours. We understand Anambra igbo dialect but we may not be able to reply them, although some can reply. It just depends on the person involved to an extent. My first boyfriend was an Ika man and he can kill because of Igbo identity which he believes he is Igbo and he can reply central Ibo dialect too. So it varies.
