Igbuzo - Culture

Culture

Before the advent of Christianity in Ibusa, the Ibusa practice Odinani.

Ibusa people are largely Christians (Catholics) but adherents of traditional religion traditionally referred to as ("Odinani") also exist. It is therefore not uncommon to find the people placing high priority on observation of traditions during the funerals of their loved ones etc. The Eternal Sacred order of Cherubim and Seraphim, Winners Church, The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Christ Embassy, Ngozi Sabbath Mission, Deeper Life Bible Church, Christ Holy Church (Odozi Obodo), Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), The Apostolic Church are some of the numerous churches located in the town.

The people place high cultural value on kola nut in discharging their traditional responsibilities. For instance, a visitor who rejects the acceptance of kolanut may have slighted his host. Kolanut is also used in observing traditional prayers and may be the first item used in welcoming guests at social gatherings before commencement of discussions.

For many centuries, Oboshi, Atakpo, Oduche, Asiama streams etc. have remained major sources of water to the people of the town but Oboshi and Atakpo stand out as streams venerated and held as deities. Oboshi and Atakpo are believed to be deities. These two streams are venerated because of the powers with which they have protected not only the people but the whole town, according to the belief of the people. As a result, the people of Igbuzo as result forbid the eating of fishes from the Oboshi River. The priest of Oboshi is “Ohene”, popularly called Ohene-Umuogwo (the Priest of Oboshi). The last of the Ohene, Ohene Ezedi, died on 7 January 2009.