OZO TITLE AND NAMES AS THE MIRROR OF IGBO TRADITIONAL BELIEFS AND PRACTICES IN ABBA COMMUNITY OF ANAMBRA STATE

Résumé

The ozo title and names are very important in Igbo society. The ozo title is highest rank one can attain in life in Abba community. It is the occasion of acquiring a new name one will be called for the rest of one’s life. Ozo title-taking accordsone great honour and prestige in the society. The occasion affords one opportunity to show the strength of his achievement and wealth. Also, it is an occasion that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Igbo people vis-a-vis Abba people. The recent events in Abba community signify that changes have occurred in the acquisition of ozo title and names. The concept of ozo title-taking in contemporary Abba community has eroded the institution its traditional values. The mores of this great institution are no longer observed. These concerns are the basis of this study. The article emphasizes on the religious dimension of ozo institution which is the bed rock of ozo title and has been played down in the contemporary society. The study aimed at unraveling the causes and the effects of these changes onozo title-taking in the community. This is achieved through phenomenological method. The study revealed that these are as a result of cultural conflict, globalization and technological advancement. The implication is that ozo society is now open to all manner of people who can afford to enter into it without recourse to the consequences. The study therefore, recommends that there is need for Abba community to overhaul ozo institution in order to preserve its traditional values.