Nigerian Politicians And The Concept of “Ofo” na “Ogu”

By Dr. Jarlath Uche Opara Jarlathuche@gmail.com

Some days ago something happened that made me turned on my inquisitive light on the concept of “Ofo” (staff of authority) na “ogu” ( fairness, righteousness) in igbo cosmology.

It was one discovery that blew my mind, opening my eyes in a very delightful manner on the deep heritage igbo culture/ tradition is embellished with.

So sweet an unveiling, in a split second I wished the igbo’ transfer of “Ofo” and the sacredness it carries, commands and the sanctity the ogu exudes, defiling any manipulations could be the modus operandi of of our political process.

A political process that is not democracy etc but “Ofo na ogu” driven.

For clarity sake “Ofo” is a material symbol, made up of a carved stick about four to six inches long, and thick at one end. A bundle of ofo twigs can also be wrapped together to make up the ofo, thick at one end and usually black due to constantly being rubbed with the blood and feathers of sacrificial animals, including fowls and goats. The ofo tree, osisi ofo (detarium elastica), is believed, among the Igbo, to be a mystical tree specially designed by God for its special role. Once the carved stick or bundle of twigs is prepared as a symbol of ofo, it is then consecrated and automatically becomes the central family cultural object which unites the living, the ancestors and the gods. It is the head of the family, the Okpara (or Onyishi in some areas) or the oldest man in the lineage, who is the recognised holder of ofo in the family. With this position of ritual authority, the gods and the ancestral spirits endow the ofo holder with special functions, rights and privileges, and it is the duty of the living to obey him”. ( Nnamdi C. Ajaebili, Okonkwo C. Eze, Paul U. Omeje
Year : 2020)

What then is “Ogu”? “Ogu”, an Igbo metaphysical category, capable of vindicating the innocent and punishing the guilty is a viable tool in restoration of sanity in Igbo culture. “Ogu” is the principle of justice which guides the actions of people and spirits. It is more of a religious/metaphysical concept than a physical object”. (Mabara George )

There are more definitions of “Ofo and Ogu”. But for the purposes of this piece,the above suffices. I guess it gives one an idea of what the two concepts mean and their relevance in upholding peace, integrity and authority in our system.

A cursory look at our Judiciary and legislature would unveil the connection between the “Ofo” concepts and the garvel they hit to seal matters or the mace they carry and of course the crozier that Bishops carry. They all symbolise signs of authority, a reflection of “Ofo” concept.

In Igbo cosmology “Ofo” isn’t politicized. Not shrouded in deception, lies and manipulation. It goes to where it belongs rightful. Due process is followed without any interference of halo effect syndrome. It goes with “Ogu”( fairness, righteousness etc) and does not condone evil

Looking at Nigeria politics and politicians through the lenses of ,”Ofo na Ogu” it becomes clearer to appreciate the bastardization of the sign of authority/ leadership( Ofo) and the obvious decimation of fairness, justice equity etc which “Ogu” represents

Imagine a political process in Nigeria that is guided by the principles and sacredness of “Ofo na Ogu”. A principle that brings judgement on any act of deception, manipulation and distortion of laid down processes and systems. Imagine a political process of leadership selection that is beaconed on “Ofo na Ogu” dynamics. A process that allows for fairness, equity, morals, values etc and throws away any person that tries to usurp leadership.

Many of our politicians who are holding the “ofo” of their states’ houses of assemblies even at the national levels usurped the “ofo”, and the “ogu” which they don’t have, is making the system sail on a topsy-turvy manner.

Until our political class begins to respect the protocol of “Ofo na Ogu” in playing politics ,Nigeria would continue to run on a treadmill, serious and strenuous motion without gaining mileage. Isn’t this our reality?
Until we begin to see and approach democracy from the deep concept of “Ofo na ogu” our liberation from the claws and fangs of political usurpers ,manipulators etc would be far flung.

Situate what happened during the 2023 elections on the beaming light of “ofo na ogu” principle and tell yourself the truth if indeed there was a reflection of “Ofo na ogu” in all that shenanigans.

Can INEC in honesty thump their chest and say to Nigerians, as an institution we have the “ogu” against all your accusations? Naah!

Can our President with pride, honour and integrity thump his chest and say on this mandate I stand, it was gotten through “ofo na ogu”? Naah! You see where the erro is. The foundation is faulty and fake, it cannot sustain anything good.

Can what is happening in Rivers State between Wike and Fubara be seen through the lenses of “Ofo na ogu” principles?

Can one see what is playing out between NNPCL and Dangote Refinery from “Ofo na ogu” principle?

Can Nigerians in honesty hold “ogu”( fairness, clean hand) against the politicians in all these shenanigans without being complicit?