Ofo in Igboland

Ofo refers to a particular type of staff (as well as the wood from which it's made) that is carried by Igbo elder men - notably patrilineage priests and some masqueraders.[1]

Ofo as sacred symbol


Ofo are also symbol objects. The Ofo is the sacred symbol of truth, justice, law and authority. It plays a role in sacrificial rituals, prayer, oath taking, pronouncing judgement, deliberating policy within the family or community and involving blessings or curses. Brass Ofo often serve as symbols of family or community authority and become revered family heirlooms.[2][3]

Symbols of power


Bronze Ofo serve as symbols of power and authority for office holders and titled men, or a sacred family icon. Ofo represents the collective power of the ancestors and the truths given by Chukwu (The High God). The Ofo, symbolizes the link between the living holder of family or ruling authority and their ancestors (Nancy Neaher).[4]

Ofo as link between Chukwu the High God and Humanity


Ofo also symbolize the link they make between Chukwu the High God and Humanity, and between the living, the dead, and those yet to be born (Njaka). Ofo plays a role in prayer, ritual sacrifice, contact of spirit patrons, magical uses, naming ceremonies, determining calendars of events, affirming moral uprightness, sealing covenants, legitimizing states or office, decision making, settling disputes, taking oaths of administration, and promulgating and enforcing laws (Christopher Ejizu) (Aug. 1999).


References

  1. ↑ "Ofo as a Global Cultural Resource and Its Significance in Igbo Culture Area". Retrieved 2015-09-16.
  2. ↑ Refugees, United Nations High Commissioner for. "Refworld | Nigeria: The Igwe of Nnewi-Chi; links to the Ofo shrine in Nkwo-Nnewi; the name of the ruler, rituals practised, and the tradition for selecting a chief". Retrieved 2015-09-16.
  3. ↑ "Religion and the Civilizational Process: The Civilizing Role of Religion in the Socio-Political Decision Making Process in Pre-colonial Ibo Community of Nigeria". ResearchGate. Retrieved 2015-09-16.
  4. ↑ Onwutalobi, Anthony-Claret. "Nnewi Monarchy - The Official Nnewi City Portal". www.nnewi.info. Retrieved 2015-09-16.
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