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Why Igbo's always say i'm not igbo. And always deny being igbo's

Unpacking the Complexities of Igbo Identity and Exploring the Reasons Behind Denial of Ethnicity

By Divine DawnPublished about a year ago 3 min read
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Why Igbo's always say i'm not igbo. And always deny being igbo's
Photo by John Mic on Unsplash

The Igbo people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, with a rich history and culture that spans centuries. They are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, academic excellence, and strong sense of community. Despite these admirable qualities, however, some Igbo individuals have been known to deny their Igbo heritage and even claim to be of a different ethnic group.

It is important to note that not all Igbo people deny their heritage, and it is not a universal phenomenon. However, some Igbo individuals have cited reasons for doing so, such as avoiding discrimination or prejudice in certain parts of Nigeria. There have been instances in Nigeria where Igbo individuals have faced violence and discrimination due to their ethnicity, particularly in the northern part of the country. As a result, some Igbo people may feel the need to distance themselves from their ethnic identity to avoid negative consequences.

Despite this, it is important to acknowledge the many positive qualities of the Igbo people. Igbo individuals are known for their hard work, perseverance, and determination to succeed in their endeavors. They have a strong sense of community and family values, and often prioritize education and academic excellence. Many Igbo individuals have made significant contributions to Nigeria and the world at large, particularly in the fields of business, academia, and the arts.

Additionally, the Igbo people have a rich cultural heritage, with a diverse range of traditions and customs. Their language, Igbo, is one of the major languages spoken in Nigeria, and is known for its unique tonal system and rich vocabulary. The Igbo people are also known for their music, dance, and cuisine, which is characterized by its bold flavors and use of local ingredients.

It is also worth noting that the Igbo people have a unique history that has shaped their identity and culture. The Igbo people have a strong sense of cultural pride and identity, which has been shaped by their history of migration, trade, and colonization.

Historically, the Igbo people were known for their trading skills, and were active in the transatlantic slave trade as both traders and slaves. This experience, along with the impact of British colonialism, has shaped the Igbo people's identity and culture in significant ways. For example, the Igbo people have a tradition of forming secret societies, which was a way to resist British colonialism and maintain their cultural identity.

Despite the challenges faced by the Igbo people throughout their history, they have remained resilient and adaptable. They have a rich tradition of entrepreneurship and innovation, and have made significant contributions to Nigeria's economy and culture. Many Igbo individuals have succeeded in business, both locally and internationally, and have played an important role in shaping Nigeria's economy.

Furthermore, the Igbo people have a strong sense of community and family values. In Igbo culture, family is highly valued and plays a central role in social and economic life. The extended family system, known as the "umunna," is an important part of Igbo culture, and provides a support network for its members.

In terms of religion, the Igbo people have a diverse range of beliefs and practices. Traditionally, the Igbo people practiced a form of animism, which involves the belief in spirits and the worship of ancestors. However, today many Igbo individuals are Christian or Muslim, and the Igbo people have contributed significantly to the development of Christianity in Nigeria.

In conclusion, while it is unfortunate that some Igbo individuals may feel the need to deny their heritage, it is important to acknowledge the many positive qualities of the Igbo people. They are a resilient and entrepreneurial group with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. By celebrating and embracing these qualities, we can work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

valuespop culturehumanitygrandparentsextended familychildren
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Divine Dawn

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