History
The origins of Ihite can be traced back to its founder, Ogbuodudu, a skilled hunter of high repute. While the exact founding year remains unknown, it is believed that Ihite has been in existence 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 during a hunting expedition. Enchanted by the area's comfort and favorable conditions for hunting, he decided to settle there. The name 'Ihite' is thought to symbolize his commitment to staying ('Ehitelem'). Ogbuodudu, the father of Ihite, had two children, Danankwo and Ubendu, shaping the familial traditions of the town.
Danankwo, Ihite's only daughter, played a significant role in the town's familial structure, embracing the practice of "Iha nwayi na ebete," allowing a female child to bear children in her father's house. Facing challenges with conception due to fibroids (Akpuru), Danankwo sought the assistance of a herbalist, eventually giving birth to a son named Akpuru. The naming reflected the hardships her mother had endured. This practice of "Iha nwayi na ebete," which continues in Ihite today, reflects the town's adherence to its cultural roots.
Villages in Ihite
Originally consisting of four villages – Umuezeagu, Umuokwa, Danankwo (Amakpuru), and Amoji – Ihite has evolved, presently operating with two divisions: Usbue (Ubendu) and Amakpuru (Danankwo). For administrative convenience, these divisions further divide into six villages, namely:
1. Umuezeawuru (Unuezealabara)
2. Umuokpalaukwu
3. Amaore (Umuezeagu)
4. Amoji / Ilili
5. Umuonyekamma
6. Umuekwere
Ihite's historical ties with the Arochukwu people in Abia State have significantly influenced the town's development. The Aros played a pivotal role in maintaining order within Ihite, assisting in purging the town of criminals. Even today, there exists a population of Aro migrants residing in Ihite. Notably, individuals from Ndiokpuehi and from Ndiukwu have integrated into the community. These migrants have established themselves in specific areas, with residents of Ndiokpuehi settling among Amorie village and those from Ndiukwu residing within Umuokpalauwku village.
On the other hand, Ihite has waged wars such as 'Ogu Ibu' and 'Ogu Ezeama,' during which alliances with Umunze and Umualaoma were formed to resist Aro warriors seeking slaves for trade with European slave traders.
Culture and Tradition
The traditional festivals hold profound significance for the people of Ihite, with key celebrations including the Iri Ji (new yam festival), Okuka-Ukwu, and Nkocha Ji. Among these, Okuka Ukwu stands out as the largest and most renowned, occurring annually in the traditional eleventh month (January–February) and lasting for "Izu Isii" (24 days).
During Okuka Ukwu, various ceremonies, including marriage rituals, take place. Lavish feasts feature the slaughtering of fowls, goats, and cows, with invitations extended to in-laws, friends, and well-wishers. Masquerades take center stage on Eke and Afor days, starting from the 4th day of the festival. Additionally, peacemaking rituals are conducted to ensure a smooth transition into the new year, coinciding with the beginning of the farming season, with prayers offered to God.
In Ihite's pre-colonial era, several deities played significant roles, including Ajala, Ngwara, and Olomgbo. Ajala, the most powerful deity, imposed strict prohibitions on Ihite citizens, discouraging activities such as murder, incest, and theft. Each deity had dedicated sacred forests, streams, and areas, such as Ngwara spring, Ogwume Spring, Ishiagommiri spring, Agwu forest, and Ajala forest. Cultural importance is attributed to specific trees and herbs in Ihite, including Egbu, Ngwu (offering protective powers against charms), Omu (symbolizing peace and warning), Ogirishi leaves (used for oath-taking), and Ojukwu palm fruit (employed as an antidote to poison)
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