Odionwere
Odionwere is a traditional leadership position among the Edo people of Edo State, Nigeria to refer to the oldest or most respected person in a community or family.[1][2][3] The term Odionwere can be roughly translated as "village chief" or "elder" in the Edo language.[4] The role of an Odionwere is significant in maintaining the cultural and social fabric of Edo communities.[5][6]
Responsibilities and role
[edit source]The Odionwere serves as the elder and custodian of traditional values and customs within a village or town.[7] They are responsible for resolving disputes, preserving the cultural heritage, and promoting unity among the villagers. The position of Odionwere is not hereditary but is earned through wisdom, experience, and respect within the community.[8]
Selection process
[edit source]The selection of an Odionwere typically involves a consensus among the village elders, taking into consideration the individual's knowledge of Edo traditions, moral character, and ability to mediate conflicts.[9][10] The chosen Odionwere becomes the symbol of authority, wisdom, and leadership within the village.[11][12]
See also
[edit source]References
[edit source]- ↑ "Enogieship And Odionwereship Institutions Of Benin Kingdom". www.edoworld.net. Retrieved 2023-08-29.
- ↑ Ọmọregie, Osarẹn S. B. (1997). Great Benin: The age of Odionwere. Neraso Publishers. ISBN 978-978-2734-83-9.
- ↑ Edo Cultural Voyage. Hanon Publishers. 2006. ISBN 978-978-34649-3-3.
- ↑ Peavy, Daryl (2010-03-25). Kings, Magic, and Medicine. Lulu.com. ISBN 978-0-557-18370-8.
- ↑ Ezra, Kate; N.Y.), Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York (1992). Royal Art of Benin: The Perls Collection in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Metropolitan Museum of Art. ISBN 978-0-87099-633-7.
- ↑ Millar, Heather (1997). The Kingdom of Benin in West Africa. Benchmark Books. ISBN 978-0-7614-0088-2.
- ↑ Igbafe, Philip Aigbona (1972). Obaseki of Benin. Heinemann Educational. ISBN 978-0-435-94469-8.
- ↑ Ryder, Alan Frederick Charles (1969). Benin and the Europeans, 1485-1897. Humanities Press.
- ↑ Bradbury, R. E. (2020-04-29). Benin Studies. Taylor & Francis Group. ISBN 978-1-138-49211-0.
- ↑ Falola, Toyin (2001). Culture and Customs of Nigeria. Greenwood Publishing Group. ISBN 978-0-313-31338-7.
- ↑ Eweka, Enawekponmwen Basimi (1992). Evolution of Benin Chieftaincy Titles. Uniben Press. ISBN 978-978-2027-19-1.
- ↑ Aisien, Ekhaguosa (1995). Benin City: The Edo State Capital. Aisien Publishers. ISBN 978-978-31533-1-8.