List Of Indigenous Tribes, Languages, And Ethnic Groups In Imo State, Nigeria
Imo State, located in southeastern Nigeria, is predominantly inhabited by the Igbo ethnic group. While the Igbo peopleshare a common language and culture, different dialects, traditions, and customs exist across the state’s 27 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
This article provides a detailed list of indigenous tribes, languages, and ethnic groups in Imo State, exploring their unique cultural identities and traditional practices.
1. Overview of Ethnic Diversity in Imo State
Although Igbo is the primary ethnic group in Imo State, there are regional dialectal variations and small communities of non-Igbo settlers engaged in trade, commerce, and intermarriage.
Key Ethnic Features of Imo State:
- Major Ethnic Group: Igbo
- Minority Groups: Small settler communities (Hausa, Fulani, Ijaw, Efik)
- Languages Spoken: Igbo, English (official), Pidgin English
- Religions: Christianity (dominant), Traditional African Religions
- Cultural Practices: Masquerade Festivals, New Yam Festival, Traditional Kingship Systems
2. Indigenous Tribes and Ethnic Groups in Imo State
A. Igbo People (Main Ethnic Group in Imo State)
The Igbo ethnic group is the indigenous population of Imo State, with three major dialectal sub-groups:
1. Owerri Igbo (Central and Southern Imo State)
- Found in Owerri Municipal, Owerri North, Owerri West, Ngor-Okpala, Mbaise, Ikeduru
- Known for cultural festivities, trade, and craftsmanship
- Prominent for the Mbaise New Yam Festival
2. Orlu Igbo (Western and Northern Imo State)
- Found in Orlu, Ideato North, Ideato South, Njaba, Oru East, Oru West, Isu, Orsu
- Historically known for warrior heritage and traditional medicine
- Celebrates the Orlu Masquerade Festival
3. Okigwe Igbo (Northeastern Imo State)
- Found in Okigwe, Ihitte-Uboma, Onuimo, Ehime Mbano, Obowo, Isiala Mbano
- Known for palm oil production and farming
- Shares cultural ties with Abia State
B. Minority Ethnic Communities in Imo State
Although Imo State is predominantly Igbo, small pockets of non-Igbo ethnic groups live in the region due to trade, business, and historical migration. These include:
- Hausa/Fulani Communities (mostly traders and cattle herders in Owerri and Orlu areas)
- Ijaw Settlers (found along the Imo River, historically involved in fishing and trade)
- Efik/Ibibio Traders (from Cross River and Akwa Ibom, engaged in commerce)
These groups are not indigenous to Imo State but have established communities due to economic opportunities.
3. Complete List of Indigenous Igbo Sub-Groups in Imo State
Imo State is culturally divided into three main Igbo sub-groups, each with distinct dialects and traditions:
A. Owerri Igbo Sub-Groups (Central and Southern Imo State)
- Owerri
- Ngor-Okpala
- Mbaise (Aboh-Mbaise, Ahiazu-Mbaise, Ezinihitte-Mbaise)
- Ikeduru
B. Orlu Igbo Sub-Groups (Western and Northern Imo State)
- Orlu
- Ideato (Ideato North and South)
- Njaba
- Oru (Oru East and Oru West)
- Isu
- Orsu
C. Okigwe Igbo Sub-Groups (Northeastern Imo State)
- Okigwe
- Ihitte-Uboma
- Onuimo
- Ehime Mbano
- Obowo
- Isiala Mbano
Each of these sub-groups has distinct dialects, cultural traditions, and historical identities.
4. Languages Spoken in Imo State
The main languages spoken in Imo State include:
- Igbo (spoken by nearly 100% of the population)
- English (official language used in schools and government)
- Nigerian Pidgin English (widely used in informal communication)
Although the Igbo spoken in Imo State is part of the Central Igbo dialect cluster, slight variations exist across different communities.
5. Cultural Heritage and Traditional Institutions
A. Traditional Leadership System in Imo State
- Each Igbo community has a traditional ruler (Eze) who governs local affairs.
- The Eze-in-Council includes chiefs, elders, and age-grade groups who help maintain cultural and political stability.
- Town unions play an essential role in community development.
B. Major Cultural Festivals in Imo State
- New Yam Festival (Iri Ji Ohu) – Celebrated annually across all communities to mark the start of the harvest season.
- Masquerade Festivals – Prominent in Orlu and Owerri, featuring masked dancers and traditional performances.
- Traditional Marriage Ceremonies – Known for elaborate bride price negotiations and cultural rites.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main ethnic group in Imo State?
The Igbo ethnic group is the dominant and indigenous ethnic group in Imo State.
2. Are there non-Igbo ethnic groups in Imo State?
Although Imo State is almost entirely Igbo, small communities of Hausa, Fulani, Ijaw, and Efik traders exist in certain areas.
3. What language is spoken in Imo State?
The primary language spoken is Igbo, but English and Nigerian Pidgin are also commonly used.
4. What is Imo State known for?
- Rich Igbo culture and traditions
- Economic and commercial hub (Owerri as a major trade center)
- Tourist attractions (Oguta Lake, Nekede Zoo, Mbari Cultural Center)
- Educational institutions (Several universities and polytechnics)
7. Conclusion
Imo State is one of Nigeria’s most culturally rich and ethnically homogeneous states, with the Igbo people as the dominant indigenous group. Although dialectal differences exist among the Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe Igbo sub-groups, they share a common linguistic and cultural identity.
With traditional institutions, vibrant festivals, and historical sites, Imo State remains a significant part of Nigeria’s Igbo heritage.
Are you from Imo State? Share your dialect, traditions, and favorite festivals in the comments!
