Odionwere

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Odionwere is a traditional leadership position among the Edo people of Edo State, Nigeria to refer to the oldest or most respected person in a community or family.[1][2][3] The term Odionwere can be roughly translated as "village chief" or "elder" in the Edo language.[4] The role of an Odionwere is significant in maintaining the cultural and social fabric of Edo communities.[5][6]

Responsibilities and role[edit]

The Odionwere serves as the elder and custodian of traditional values and customs within a village or town.[7] They are responsible for resolving disputes, preserving the cultural heritage, and promoting unity among the villagers. The position of Odionwere is not hereditary but is earned through wisdom, experience, and respect within the community.[8]

Selection process[edit]

The selection of an Odionwere typically involves a consensus among the village elders, taking into consideration the individual's knowledge of Edo traditions, moral character, and ability to mediate conflicts.[9][10] The chosen Odionwere becomes the symbol of authority, wisdom, and leadership within the village.[11][12]

Significance[edit]

The Odionwere plays a crucial role in various aspects of village life, including:

  • Dispute Resolution: They serve as the ultimate authority in settling disputes, maintaining harmony, and promoting justice within the community.
  • Cultural Preservation: The Odionwere ensures the preservation of traditional practices, rituals, and oral history, passing them down to younger generations.
  • Community Development: They guide the community in making decisions that affect their well-being and development, working closely with other village officials.[13]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ "Enogieship And Odionwereship Institutions Of Benin Kingdom". www.edoworld.net. Retrieved 2023-08-29.
  2. ^ Ọmọregie, Osarẹn S. B. (1997). Great Benin: The age of Odionwere. Neraso Publishers. ISBN 978-978-2734-83-9.
  3. ^ Edo Cultural Voyage. Hanon Publishers. 2006. ISBN 978-978-34649-3-3.
  4. ^ Peavy, Daryl (2010-03-25). Kings, Magic, and Medicine. Lulu.com. ISBN 978-0-557-18370-8.
  5. ^ Ezra, Kate; N.Y.), Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York (1992). Royal Art of Benin: The Perls Collection in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Metropolitan Museum of Art. ISBN 978-0-87099-633-7.
  6. ^ Millar, Heather (1997). The Kingdom of Benin in West Africa. Benchmark Books. ISBN 978-0-7614-0088-2.
  7. ^ Igbafe, Philip Aigbona (1972). Obaseki of Benin. Heinemann Educational. ISBN 978-0-435-94469-8.
  8. ^ Ryder, Alan Frederick Charles (1969). Benin and the Europeans, 1485-1897. Humanities Press.
  9. ^ Bradbury, R. E. (2020-04-29). Benin Studies. Taylor & Francis Group. ISBN 978-1-138-49211-0.
  10. ^ Falola, Toyin (2001). Culture and Customs of Nigeria. Greenwood Publishing Group. ISBN 978-0-313-31338-7.
  11. ^ Eweka, Enawekponmwen Basimi (1992). Evolution of Benin Chieftaincy Titles. Uniben Press. ISBN 978-978-2027-19-1.
  12. ^ Aisien, Ekhaguosa (1995). Benin City: The Edo State Capital. Aisien Publishers. ISBN 978-978-31533-1-8.
  13. ^ Roese, Peter M.; Bondarenko, D. M. (2003). A Popular History of Benin: The Rise and Fall of a Mighty Forest Kingdom. P. Lang. ISBN 978-3-631-50472-7.
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