History, Origin, Culture and Traditions of Ihete Town in Anambra state

 
Ihite is a settlement in the Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. Situated to the southeast of the local government area, it lies along the Nnobi-Ekwulobia-Ufuma-Umunze-Ibinta-Okigwe federal road. Ihite shares borders with Umunze in Anambra State, Aondizuogu, Ndiochi, and Okannachi in Imo State, and Nneato in Abia State.

##History
The history of Ihite can be traced to its founder, Ogbuodudu, a renowned hunter. While the exact date of its establishment remains uncertain, it is believed that Ihite has existed for over six centuries, dating back to the 1400s. Ogbuodudu, a migratory figure from the Utorikpo family of Uturu in Isukwuato Local Government Area, Abia State, discovered Ihite while on a hunting trip. Captivated by the region's favorable hunting environment and comfortable living conditions, he decided to settle there. The name "Ihite" is thought to derive from the phrase 'Ehitelem,' meaning "I will stay." Ogbuodudu had two children, Danankwo and Ubendu, who greatly influenced the town’s lineage and traditions.

Danankwo, Ihite's only daughter, became central to the town's traditions by embracing the practice of "Iha nwayi na ebete," which allows a female child to bear children in her father’s home. After facing challenges conceiving due to fibroids (Akpuru), Danankwo consulted a herbalist and gave birth to a son named Akpuru. This naming reflected the difficulties she had endured. The practice of "Iha nwayi na ebete" continues in Ihite to this day, upholding the town's cultural practices.

##Villages in Ihite
Originally composed of four villages – Umuezeagu, Umuokwa, Danankwo (Amakpuru), and Amoji – Ihite has since evolved into two main divisions: Usbue (Ubendu) and Amakpuru (Danankwo). These divisions are further split into six villages:

Umuezeawuru (Unuezealabara)

Umuokpalaukwu

Amaore (Umuezeagu)

Amoji / Ilili

Umuonyekamma

Umuekwere


Ihite shares historical ties with the Arochukwu people in Abia State, whose influence has played a key role in the development of the town. The Aros assisted in maintaining order in Ihite and played a crucial role in expelling criminals. To this day, some Aro migrants reside in Ihite, particularly individuals from Ndiokpuehi and Ndiukwu, who have integrated into the community. Ndiokpuehi residents live in Amorie village, while those from Ndiukwu reside in Umuokpalauwku village.

Ihite has also engaged in wars, such as 'Ogu Ibu' and 'Ogu Ezeama,' forming alliances with Umunze and Umualaoma to fend off Aro warriors seeking slaves for trade with European slave traders.

#Culture and Tradition
Traditional festivals hold deep significance for the people of Ihite, with notable celebrations such as the Iri Ji (new yam festival), Okuka-Ukwu, and Nkocha Ji. Among these, Okuka Ukwu is the largest and most celebrated, occurring annually in the traditional eleventh month (January–February), lasting for "Izu Isii" (24 days).

During Okuka Ukwu, various ceremonies, including marriage rites, are conducted. Feasts with the slaughtering of fowls, goats, and cows are held, and guests, including in-laws and well-wishers, are invited. Masquerades take center stage on Eke and Afor days, starting from the fourth day of the festival. Additionally, peacemaking rituals are performed to ensure a smooth transition into the new year, aligning with the beginning of the farming season, and prayers are offered to God.

In pre-colonial times, Ihite revered several deities, including Ajala, Ngwara, and Olomgbo. Ajala, the most powerful deity, imposed strict prohibitions, forbidding acts like murder, incest, and theft. Sacred areas such as Ngwara Spring, Ogwume Spring, Ishiagommiri Spring, Agwu Forest, and Ajala Forest were dedicated to these deities. Specific trees and herbs in Ihite, like Egbu, Ngwu (which protects against charms), Omu (symbolizing peace and warning), Ogirishi leaves (used for oath-taking), and Ojukwu palm fruit (which serves as an antidote to poison), also hold cultural importance.

##Form of Government
Ihite is governed through the traditional chieftaincy institution and the Ihite Development Union (IDU). The Igwe of Ihite, the traditional ruler, holds the title 'Ogbuodudu,' honoring the town’s founder. The late Igwe Sir B.O. Ofu adopted the title 'Ezeamama,' but future rulers will revert to the title 'Ogbuodudu.' The selection of the Igwe rotates among the villages of Ihite.

The Abagbuoroagu of Ihite holds the second-highest rank as the traditional prime minister, supported by chiefs of high integrity. Two representatives from each village, known as Ichies, assist in governance.

The Ihite Development Union (IDU), established under the leadership of Igwe Sir B.O. Ofu, serves as another important governing body. The IDU is led by a President-General, and elected executives play a role in the town’s development.

##Notable People from Ihite

Chief Benson Ofu (Late), former traditional ruler of Ihite.

Nnamdi Okonkwo, Group Managing Director (GMD) of FBN Holdings Plc, and former CEO/Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Nigeria.

Chris Okafor, Nigerian Christian minister and televangelist, leader and founder of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministry (Liberation City).

Engr. Sam Emeka.