In the vast, untamed savannahs of sub-Saharan Africa, there roams a creature both feared and admired: the Hertebeest, “Ọ̀chàchàkolo” (or “Ọ̀chà, for short), as it is known in the Igala language. This majestic African antelope (its other name), with its sleek body and powerful legs, is the epitome of speed, strength, and endurance. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour, the Hertebeest is a symbol of agility in African folklore, a […]
The Miraculous Marvels of Mandrake Tree
The Mandrake tree (Mandragora officinarum) is renowned worldwide as “the most famous of all magical plants,” according to Wikipedia. Growing up in the late fifties, I remember a wealthy man in my neighborhood who was often referred to as named “Ìchábù-Ólíná.” I was always curious about the meaning of ‘Olina’. I tried breaking down the word into ‘ólí’ (tree) and ‘íná’ (sacred, supreme) in an attempt to decipher its significance, but it remained elusive. It […]
The Kindred Languages: Igala, Yoruba, and Itsekiri
During my stay of over a decade in Southwest Nigeria – precisely Lagos – in the 1980s and 90s, I often heard people say “Igala language is an offshoot of the Yoruba language” in view of the similarities between them” I usually disagreed with them, explaining that research had established that Igala and Yoruba share a common ancestry. I also added that, along with Itsekiri, the languages form a trio of interconnected tongues. The three […]
The Crocodile and the Tortoise
Once upon a time, a female crocodile settled on the bank of a river. One evening, as she strolled along the shore, she discovered some eggs lying in a nest, partially covered. She marveled at their freckled beauty, wishing they were her own. When she returned home, she mentioned her find and sought help to decorate her eggs. She was directed to Mr. Tortoise, who was renowned for his skill in decorating eggs. Thanking her […]
Igala Kingship and Principle of Primogeniture
According to Wikipedia, ‘primogeniture’ is defined as “the right, by law or custom, of the first-born child to inherit the parent’s entire or main estate.” In Igala culture, inheritance rights are limited to a father’s property or title, if he held a kingship or traditional chieftaincy title before his death. Throughout Igala kingship history, the principle of primogeniture has been breached on several occasions. At one time, a younger sibling unexpectedly ascended to the throne […]