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

 
Obuohia is a settlement located in the Ibere region of Ikwuano Local Government Area in Abia State, Nigeria. It is the largest village within the Ibere clan and the third largest in the entire Ikwuano area. Obuohia is a key part of the Obi Ibere Autonomous Community, serving as its administrative center. The village is situated approximately 27 kilometers to the east of Umuahia, the capital of Abia State.

##History
The name Obuohia is believed to originate from the combination of two words: "Obu," meaning lodge, and "Ohia," which can mean bush but in this context refers to the name of an individual. According to local oral traditions, the first person to settle in Obuohia was named Ohia, and the settlement was subsequently called "Ohia's lodge," which evolved into the current name, Obuohia.

##Culture
The community is rich in cultural traditions, with vibrant celebrations such as the Ekpe festival and the Iri Ji (New Yam) festival, both of which are important cultural markers for the people of Obuohia.

##Kindreds
Obuohia is composed of four distinct kindreds, which include:

Umuakoo

Umuachi

Umuotuu

Umuodoro


##People
The majority of Obuohia’s inhabitants are engaged in farming, hunting, and commerce. Notable individuals from Obuohia include CLLR Mrs. Edith Ngozi David-Onwunaruwa, a Councillor in East Barnet, London, England, Samuel Onuigbo, a former member of the Nigerian House of Representatives for Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Constituency, and Uche Mpamah (late), a former Commissioner for Sports in Abia State and the former LGA Chairman of Ikwuano.

##Economy
The community is predominantly agricultural, making it an important food-producing area in the Ibere region. With a population of over 4,000 people and a history spanning more than a century, Obuohia is known for its extensive agricultural activities, which form the primary source of income for the residents. The village also hosts laborers from nearby states, including Nkalu in Akwa Ibom, and parts of Enugu and Ebonyi States. The produce from Obuohia is sold in various markets, including Ndoro, Ariam, and Umuahia. Traditionally, the village would rest from farming activities on the Orie Ukwu market day, which was once Obuohia's primary market day. However, this market, like many others in the Ikwuano area, has become less active due to competition from other regional markets. Recently, a new market has been constructed to revitalize local trade.