Igbo Communities in Nigeria
Apart from the five southeastern states (Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Abia), several other states in Nigeria have communities with Igbo origins , including the observance of the traditional four Igbo market days (Eke, Orie, Afo, and Nkwo). These market days are integral to Igbo culture and are often used to structure community life and commerce.
Here’s a list of some states outside the Southeast with Igbo origins or communities that observe the four market days:
1. Delta State
Delta State has a significant Igbo population, especially in areas known as the Anioma region. Key communities here include:
- Asaba
- Ogwashi-Uku
- Agbor
- Ubulu-Uku
- Illah
- Issele-Uku
- Ibusa (Igbuzor)
These areas identify as Anioma Igbo and retain strong Igbo cultural practices, including the four market days.
2. Rivers State
The Ikwerre, Etche, and Ndoni people in Rivers State are of Igbo origin. Some of their communities include:
- Port Harcourt (Ikwerre areas)
- Omoku (Ndoni)
- Etche
These groups often practice traditional Igbo customs and observe the market days.
3. Bayelsa State
Certain communities in Bayelsa State, such as the Ndi Igbo in Ogbia, have historical ties to the Igbo and may observe Igbo traditions, including the market days.
4. Edo State
In Edo State, the Ika people in areas bordering Delta State share Igbo heritage. Communities like Igbanke and parts of Umunede have cultural practices linked to the Igbo, including the market days.
5. Cross River State
Some parts of Cross River State, particularly those bordering Ebonyi and Abia States, have Igbo-speaking communities, such as:
- Izzi people
- Ezza people
- Effium (shared between Cross River and Ebonyi)
These communities observe the Igbo traditional calendar and market system.
6. Benue State
In Benue State, communities like those in Ado Local Government Area, which borders Enugu State, have Igbo origins. The market day system is a cultural feature in these areas.
7. Kogi State
In Kogi State, particularly in the Ibaji and Idah areas, there are Igbo-speaking communities with strong ties to Igbo traditions, including the observance of the market days.
8. Akwa Ibom State
Some communities in Akwa Ibom bordering Abia State, such as parts of Ini Local Government, have Igbo influences and observe some aspects of Igbo culture, including market days.
Market Days Commonality
The four Igbo market days are more than just a calendar system—they are a testament to the cultural unity of Igbo people across Nigeria, even in regions outside the southeastern core. These market days remain a vital link connecting Igbo-speaking and Igbo-influenced communities across states like Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Edo, Cross River, Benue, Kogi, and Akwa Ibom. This widespread presence underscores the rich history and enduring legacy of the Igbo people in Nigeria. Ndi Igbo kwenu!
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