History, Origin, Culture and Traditions of Akwete Town in Abia State

 
Akwete is a town located in the Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Positioned 18 kilometers northeast of the oil-rich Port Harcourt and 18 kilometers southeast of the commercial hub of Aba, Akwete holds significance for both the Ndoki people and the broader Igbo community. It is part of the Umuihueze II clan and is renowned throughout West Africa for its distinctive weaving traditions.

Akwete shares borders with the Umuagbai community in Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State.

##Historical Background
In the early 19th century, Akwete became a significant destination for Aro slave traders, who brought enslaved Igbo individuals and others from different regions to the coastal areas. Among those brought to Akwete was Jaja of Opobo, who was enslaved around 1830 and later became the king of the city-state of Opobo. Akwete was also heavily involved in the palm oil trade, which, by the time Jaja arrived, had become the primary export from the region.

##Etymology
The origin of the name "Akwete" is widely debated. One theory suggests that the name derives from 'Aku-Ete,' referencing a type of rope made from palm trees, which was used by cutters to climb the trees, known as "Ete." Another prevailing theory connects the name to the Ndoki weaving tradition for which the women of Akwete are famous.

##Climate
Akwete experiences a generally warm and humid climate throughout the year, with frequent fog during both the wet and dry seasons. The average temperature ranges between 67°F and 90°F, rarely dipping below 60°F or exceeding 93°F. Due to minimal variation in temperature, Akwete doesn’t exhibit distinct hot or cold seasons.

##Cloud Cover
The cloud cover in Akwete shows noticeable seasonal changes. The period from November 24 to February 13 marks the clearer season, lasting for approximately 2.6 months. December is the clearest month, with the sky being mostly clear or partly cloudy 38% of the time. The cloudier season runs from February 13 to November 24, spanning about 9.4 months, with April being the cloudiest month, experiencing overcast or mostly cloudy skies 88% of the time.

##Precipitation
Akwete experiences significant variation in rainfall throughout the year. The wetter season, lasting from March 20 to November 12 (about 7.7 months), has a high probability of rain, with September being the wettest month, averaging 25.6 rainy days. The dry season lasts from November 12 to March 20, lasting about 4.3 months, with January being the driest month, averaging only 2.7 rainy days.

Rainfall is the most common form of precipitation in Akwete, particularly during the wet season. The likelihood of rain in September is particularly high, with an 87% chance of rainfall on any given day during this month.