Abia State Tribes: A Comprehensive List Of Ethnic Groups
Abia State, located in southeastern Nigeria, is one of the Igbo-dominated states known for its rich cultural heritage, commerce, and industrial activities. The state is home to several indigenous communities, with the Igbo ethnic groupmaking up the vast majority. However, there are also minority ethnic groups and settlers who contribute to the state's cultural diversity.
In this article, we will explore the major ethnic groups and indigenous tribes of Abia State, their unique cultures, and their historical significance.
1. The Igbo People (Dominant Ethnic Group in Abia State)
The Igbo people are the largest ethnic group in Abia State, making up over 90% of the population. The Igbos are known for their:
- Entrepreneurial spirit and dominance in trade and commerce.
- Traditional governance system, with elders, village heads, and Eze (traditional rulers) playing vital roles.
- Festivals and cultural practices, including the New Yam Festival (Iri Ji) and Ekpe masquerade performances.
- Highly decentralized political system, where towns and communities maintain a level of autonomy.
Igbo Subgroups in Abia State
The Igbo people in Abia State can be divided into various cultural and dialectal subgroups, including:
- Ngwa People – Found in Obingwa, Isiala Ngwa North, and Isiala Ngwa South LGAs
- Ohuhu People – Located in Umuahia North and Umuahia South LGAs
- Ibeku People – Primarily in Umuahia North LGA
- Ukwa People – Found in Ukwa East and Ukwa West LGAs
- Arochukwu People – Inhabiting Arochukwu LGA
- Abriba People – Found in Ohafia LGA
- Ohafia People – Also in Ohafia LGA
- Item People – Located in Bende LGA
- Isuikwuato People – Mainly in Isuikwuato LGA
Each of these Igbo subgroups has distinct dialects, cultural traditions, and historical backgrounds while still identifying as part of the broader Igbo ethnic group.
2. The Ukwa People (Minority Indigenous Group in Abia State)
The Ukwa people are a distinct ethnic group within Abia State, primarily found in Ukwa East and Ukwa West Local Government Areas.
Key Features of Ukwa Culture
- The Ukwa people speak a dialect of the Igbo language, though it has some unique words and phrases.
- Historically, they engaged in fishing, trade, and farming.
- Ukwa land is rich in oil and gas resources, making it an essential part of Nigeria’s oil-producing areas.
While the Ukwa people share cultural similarities with the Igbos, they also have unique traditions and chieftaincy institutions.
3. The Arochukwu People (Aro Igbo Clan)
The Arochukwu people are one of the most historically significant Igbo subgroups in Abia State, located in Arochukwu LGA.
Historical Importance of Arochukwu
- The Aros played a major role in pre-colonial Igbo trade and politics, controlling key trade routes.
- They are known for their mystical influence, with the Ibini Ukpabi oracle (also called the Long Juju of Arochukwu) being one of the most powerful religious centers in Igboland.
- The Aros were middlemen in the Transatlantic slave trade, working with Europeans and other Igbo communities.
Today, the Arochukwu people remain influential in Abia State’s political and economic landscape.
4. The Ohafia People
The Ohafia people, found in Ohafia Local Government Area, are known for their warrior heritage.
Key Aspects of Ohafia Culture
- Historically, the Ohafia were fearless warriors who served as mercenaries in various conflicts.
- The Ohafia War Dance (Ikpirikpi Ogu) is a famous cultural display that commemorates their military strength and bravery.
- Their dialect is distinct but closely related to the Arochukwu and Ngwa dialects.
Ohafia remains an important center of tradition, tourism, and Igbo cultural preservation in Abia State.
5. The Abriba People
The Abriba people, also called "the Small London of Abia State," are known for their strong business acumen and wealth. They are located in Ohafia LGA.
What Makes Abriba Unique?
- The Abriba people are highly entrepreneurial, with many of them succeeding in business and trade across Nigeria.
- They have a unique cultural festival known as "Ekpe", which includes masquerade performances and initiation ceremonies.
- Their dialect is a variation of the Ohafia and Arochukwu dialects.
Abriba is considered one of the wealthiest communities in Abia State due to the success of its businesspeople.
6. The Isuikwuato People
The Isuikwuato people are found in Isuikwuato Local Government Area.
Key Cultural Highlights
- Known as the "Land of Generals", Isuikwuato has produced several high-ranking military officers in Nigeria.
- The people are mainly farmers, growing crops such as yam, cassava, and palm produce.
- Their dialect is closely related to the Ngwa and Arochukwu dialects.
Isuikwuato remains an important agricultural and cultural center in Abia State.
7. Minority and Migrant Groups in Abia State
While the Igbo people dominate Abia State, there are also minority ethnic groups and settlers who contribute to the state’s cultural and economic landscape.
A. Non-Igbo Indigenous Tribes
Some Ijaw and Efik settlers live in Ukwa East and Ukwa West LGAs, mainly due to historical trade and migrationfrom neighboring Rivers and Akwa Ibom States.
B. Migrant Communities in Abia State
- Hausa/Fulani traders – Found in Aba and Umuahia, mainly engaged in cattle trading and commerce.
- Yoruba settlers – Some Yoruba business owners have settled in Aba, contributing to the city’s commercial activities.
- Other Igbo migrants – People from Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi, and Enugu States have migrated to Abia for business and work opportunities.
These groups have integrated into Abia’s economy while maintaining their unique cultural identities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the dominant ethnic group in Abia State?
The Igbo ethnic group is the largest in Abia State, making up over 90% of the population.
2. Are there non-Igbo tribes in Abia?
Yes, the Ukwa people are a distinct minority indigenous group. There are also Ijaw, Efik, Hausa, Yoruba, and other migrant communities.
3. What language is spoken in Abia State?
- The primary language is Igbo, with various dialects spoken by different subgroups.
- Nigerian Pidgin English is commonly used for communication.
- English is the official language of government and education.
4. What is the most historical Igbo group in Abia?
The Arochukwu people are historically significant due to their role in Igbo trade and politics.
5. Which tribe is dominant in Aba?
Aba is multi-ethnic but is primarily inhabited by Ngwa and other Igbo subgroups.
Final Thoughts
Abia State is one of Nigeria’s most culturally rich states, with its people deeply connected to their history, commerce, and traditions. From the warrior heritage of Ohafia to the economic strength of Aba, each ethnic group contributes to the state’s identity and development.
Do you have a connection to Abia State? Share your thoughts in the comments!
