Iyom Title (Otu Odu)
Title taking is an inherent element of Nigerian societies, especially amongst the Igbo people; an ethnic group well-known for their enterprising, independent and adventurous nature. As well as the men, this cultural heritage is also extended to the women folks in the society. In traditional Igbo societies, women have been gracefully distinguished by their social status through initiation into various societies in the community. This initiation often serves as their cultural responsibility to the society at large.
Contrary to the overwhelming speculative narrative that the Igbo society is especially patriarchal, the celebration of the Iyom ceremony and its qualifying title refutes such claims. With the position of these women, their role in the sociopolitical sphere of traditional Igbo society is huge. Today’s Saturday Small Chops explores the prestigious Iyom title renowned in traditional Igbo society.
Iyom or Otu Odu is the most revered and coveted society for women in the southeastern part of the country. The Iyom title is a women-only title conferred to women of integrity, class and character in Igboland. The title is similar to the Igbo Ozo title for men. In Igbo societies where the Iyom title or Otu Odu is given, it is usually regarded as the highest traditional society women can aspire to belong to following the honour and status conferred to its holders. Members and aspiring ones are exceptional women who are well-regarded in society and without blemish. Admission of a woman into this highly coveted society as an Iyom requires the validation of her husband, kinsmen and members of the Iyom club confirming her worthiness for the honour.
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Members of Iyom society are usually recognized by white Elephant tusk anklets known as Odu, which are worn on both legs and hands as a distinguishing mark. Iyom title holders are highly recognized, honoured and are blessed with sitting positions at prestigious ceremonies and events in society.
The induction ceremony is an elaborate display of culture interlaced with elegance. The celebration is usually graced by important people in society. It features performances by various dance groups including women and girls and often followed by a procession of initiates dressed elegantly in white attires, singing and chanting praise songs while the men blow a finely carved elephant tusk. Once initiated, an Iyom, (title holder) is expected to live a life of philanthropy, upholding and defending the truth at all times.
During important festive celebrations, members of the Iyom society are often seen dressed elegantly in white clothes, headgear and a pair of white slippers to match. Their dressing Is often complemented with a cow tail in their hand while elephant tusk anklets are placed on their legs and wrist to signify membership of the society.
Although some Igbo communities use brass anklets rather than Odu (Elephant tusk), the Odu has surprisingly survived till this day while the brass ones are no longer in use. With the emergence of modern-day titles, some believe the Iyom to be old-fashioned. However, in parts of Nri, Anambra State which comprises of Enugwu-Ukwu, Agukwu-Nri, Nawfia, Enugwu-Agidi and others, the Iyom title is still much celebrated and given to a woman of means, wealth and virtue.
While observing this esteemed culture, titleholders have been seen to uphold the Igbo traditional society, culture and traditions without challenging or competing with the men.
Iyom title is a true definition of womanhood in all ramification.
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