Origins Of Owa Towns And Villages

The Owa Kingdom is a prominent cultural and historical Ika kingdom in Delta State, Nigeria. It is an integral part of the larger Ika ethnic group and is governed by a traditional ruler known as the Obi of Owa, who serves as both the cultural and spiritual leader of the kingdom.

Key Facts about Owa Kingdom

Geography

Owa Kingdom is situated within the Ika North East Local Government Area, with Owa Oyibu serving as its administrative and cultural capital. This central location plays a key role in its governance and cultural preservation.

Leadership

The current monarch of Owa Kingdom, Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II, has held the title of Obi of Owa for decades. He is highly respected in Delta State and beyond, not only for his leadership within the kingdom but also as the Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers.

History and Culture

The Owa people share strong cultural and linguistic ties with other Ika communities. Traditional festivals and ceremonies, such as the Igue Festival, are celebrated to preserve the customs and traditions of the kingdom. Core values in Owa culture include unity, respect for elders, and the safeguarding of their cultural heritage.

Agriculture is the primary economic activity in Owa Kingdom, with key crops including yam, cassava, and maize. Modern developments, such as the growth of businesses and educational institutions, have further influenced the area, contributing to its social and economic advancement.

Historical Origins and Communities of Owa Kingdom

The Owa Kingdom is made up of several distinct communities, each with a unique history of migration and establishment:

Owa Oyibu

Around the 12th century, Prince Odogu, whose younger brother had already been enthroned in Ute-Okpu, migrated with his loyal followers and settled in Owa Oyibu. Upon arrival, they met settlers from Benin who accepted Odogu’s leadership due to his reputation as a great warrior. Additional groups, including those from Idumusuma, Idumugbo, Okpe, and Ekwueze in Abavo, later joined them.

Today, Owa Oyibu comprises villages and quarters such as Obosi, which includes Idah, Ikokogbe, Ogbeonicha, Idumuizomor, Idumuzugbo, Ogbeohun, New Ogbeobi, Idumugbo, Idumusuma, and Ime-Oyibu.

Owa Alizomor

Odogu’s brother, Ozomor, also migrated from the royal family of Ute-Okpu and established the community of Owa Alizomor, which is named after him. Before Ozomor’s arrival, the Iru people had migrated from Igwaza near Abudu in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State. Following a land dispute with Owa Alero, many Iru settlers returned to Igwaza, leaving behind a smaller group that integrated with Ozomor’s settlement.

Today, Owa Alizomor includes Iru quarters, Idumuogbe, Idumuse, Idumuigbo, Idumuozah, and Ileme.

Owa Ofie

Dating back to the 8th century A.D., Owa Ofie was founded by a group led by Adagba, who migrated from Ekhoha near Okada in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. Owa Ofie is recognized as the oldest community in Owa Kingdom and is often referred to as “Ofie akan, ali ken mgbakala jen igwere,” meaning “most ancient Ofie community whose ancestors built the likes of the Tower of Babel.”

Despite their initial independence, the community came under the control of Odogu. This shift was considered humiliating, prompting some inhabitants to relocate. Today, Owa Ofie consists of Agidi, Idumuekobi, and Idumuogbendu, as well as Ime-Ofie, which includes Idumuobia, Idumuozala, Idumutupu, and Idumuodagwe.

Owa Ekei

Around the 10th century, Ugbasogun led a group of migrants from Benin City to settle in Owa Ekei, forming a powerful community. However, after being defeated by Odogu, many inhabitants relocated to Owa Nikeke near Abudu in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State. The current Owa Ekei community comprises Ikeke, Idumuebor, and Ogbeohun.

Owa Alero

This settlement was formed by various groups of migrants. Some came from Ute-Ogbeje and settled in Aliegwe, while others from Agbor established Idumuebor. Additional settlers arrived from Otolokpo and Ute-Owere (Aliedkun) in Ute-Okpu, among other places. These groups created a diverse and thriving community.

Owa Alero today includes Alegwe, Alegwe-Ukwu, Aligbeje, Amika, Idumuebor, Idumusoh, Idumugbala, Idumuozoge, and Idumuogbeukwu.

Owa Nta

Owa Nta was first settled by Okwue people who migrated from Ute-Ogbeje. Later, they were joined by Osimi and Edie, who came from Okpe in Abavo and Idumuezeajan in Ute-Okpu, respectively. These groups have coexisted as a unified community known as Owa-Nta Idumuetor.

Owa Alidinma

Owa Alidinma was originally established by Isibor and Izpoghor, who migrated from Owa Oyibu for farming purposes. Over time, settlers from various nearby towns and villages joined them. Today, Owa Alidinma includes Ogbeobi, Ebuenor, and Idumuzugbo.

Boji-Boji Owa

Boji-Boji Owa is an extension of Owa Nta and has grown into a major urban settlement. It attracted a diverse population after the Crewe Reed War, with military barracks and other establishments drawing soldiers, their families, traders, and settlers from various ethnic groups, including Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and Edo.

Today, Boji-Boji Owa is the most populous area in Owa Kingdom.

The Owa Kingdom is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and development, making it a vital part of the Ika community. Its unique blend of traditions, migration stories, and modern influences showcases its significance in the region.

Interested in learning more about Ika?

Click here to download Ika App

Click here to join Ika WhatsApp Channel to stay updated with latest news