Traditional leaders in Oguta, Imo State, have officially abolished the centuries-old outcaste system known as Ohu, which had long caused social discrimination and exclusion within the community.
The announcement was made in Oguta on Sunday by Chief Nduka Oduenyi, Ogana (spokesman) to the traditional ruler, Eze Nnani Eze-Eyiche. Oduenyi explained that the decision followed years of dialogue and advocacy by the Oguta Ohu Eradication Dialogue Group (OOEDG), a coalition of respected indigenes dedicated to ending the divisive practice.
According to him, community elders, scholars, clergy, and titleholders worked tirelessly to achieve consensus on the matter. He described the abolition as a turning point for Oguta, symbolising renewal, equality, and unity. For generations, the Ohu system had denied certain families equal rights, marriage opportunities, and social participation, leaving deep scars in the community.
“With this proclamation, the Ohu system no longer exists in Oguta,” Oduenyi declared. “All sons and daughters of Oguta are now free to intermarry without fear of discrimination.” He thanked the OOEDG for their persistence in ensuring the practice was brought to an end.
Chief Mike Ogbonna, chairman of the OOEDG, expressed satisfaction that the long struggle had finally paid off. He noted that the system caused immense suffering and exclusion, even leading to broken families and suicides. Ogbonna said the group united both local and diaspora indigenes to ensure that such an outdated custom would not survive in the 21st century.
A Catholic priest and member of the OOEDG, Prof. Lawrence Okwuosa, described the declaration as a complete abolition of caste distinctions in Oguta. “Every indigene is now equal before God and man,” he said. “This act restores human dignity and promotes peace and progress in our land.”
He also urged other traditional rulers across Igbo communities to emulate Oguta’s example and end all caste-based discrimination. Explaining the historical roots of the system, Okwuosa said many so-called outcastes descended from people who were once pawned or sold into servitude generations ago.
The event was attended by religious leaders including the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Lucius Ugorji, represented by Rev. Fr. Basil Nze, and the Anglican Bishop of Oguta Diocese, Bishop Chijoke Otti, represented by Mr. Okwaraeze.
