Kola nut: revisiting the Igbo socio-cultural values and identity

Abstract

In every human culture exists a mark of identification which portrays their homogeneity as an entity. In this regard, this paper is a reminiscent of the history of kolanut as a significant socio-cultural symbol of identification of the Igbo origin of hospitality, unity and integration. Although scholars have written extensively on kolanut as generally significant in Nigeria heterogeneity: grown and harvested in commercial quantity in the west (Yorubas), consumed almost as food in the north (Hausas), and is mythically celebrated and ritualized by the Igbos of south east Nigeria. From the historical and phenomenological perspectives, it is discovered that although there are two types of kolanut consumed in Nigeria; cola acuminate and cola nitida (oji Igbo and gworo), the meaning and symbol of Oji Igbo (cola acuminate) in particular, is more valued in Igbo tradition where its sacredness is attached to the foundation of Igbo Origin (Ntu Ala Igbo), and a marriage covenant between the spirit and the humans. Sources gathered through interviews, participant observations and secondary materials show that “Oji Igbo” is so significant that no social, religious and traditional celebration in Igboland is deemed complete and meaningful without it. It is regrettably observed also that this cherished kolanut cultural identity is almost at the verge of extinction especially among the young and modern day Igbos who tend to abandon the kolanut value and identity on the altar of modernization and globalization. This paper therefore called for a socio-cultural and religious revival of the Igbo kolanut culture as an indefatigable mark of Igbo foundation and identity.

Keywords: Kolanut, Igbo, value, identity, cola acuminate and cola nitida (oji Igbo and gworo)