In a landmark step toward equality and social justice, traditional leaders of Oguta community in Imo State have abolished the age-long Ohu (outcaste) system, which for generations subjected some families to social discrimination and exclusion.
The formal proclamation was made on Sunday by Chief Nduka Oduenyi, the Ogana (spokesman/assistant) of the traditional ruler of Oguta, Eze Nnani Eze-Eyiche, on behalf of the monarch.
Oduenyi, addressing a gathering of community members and dignitaries, said the decision marked “a historic moment of renewal and unity” and was the result of years of dialogue and advocacy by the Oguta Ohu Eradication Dialogue Group (OOEDG) — a coalition of prominent sons and daughters of the ancient town.
“The long-standing Ohu caste system — a practice widely regarded as discriminatory and inconsistent with human dignity — no longer exists in Oguta going forward,” Oduenyi declared. “For generations, the Ohu caste system perpetuated social division, stigma, and injustice. Its abolition restores dignity and equality to all Oguta indigenes.”
He noted that the system, which had long prevented intermarriage and restricted access to traditional titles and community participation, would no longer define or divide the people.
“Sons and daughters of Oguta can now freely intermarry, with no one ever referred to as an outcaste again,” Oduenyi said.
Chairman of the OOEDG, Chief Mike Ogbonna, described the abolition as “a dream fulfilled,” expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to the long struggle.
“It took the efforts of many, both in Nigeria and the diaspora, to achieve this. The outcaste system broke hearts, denied rights, and caused deep pain. Today, that chapter is closed,” Ogbonna said.
A Catholic priest and member of the OOEDG, Prof. Lawrence Okwuosa, hailed the decision as a moral and spiritual victory.
“With this public proclamation, all forms of caste distinction have been abolished. Every Oguta indigene is equal before God and now equal before man,” he stated.
Prof. Okwuosa explained that the Ohu system originated from historical practices where individuals were given out to other families in exchange for money or debt repayment, with their descendants then stigmatised as outcastes.
He urged other Igbo communities to follow Oguta’s example and end all caste-based discrimination.
“Many of us travel abroad and marry foreigners but discriminate against our own people at home — that must end,” he said.
The proclamation ceremony was attended by representatives of the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Lucius Ugorji, the Anglican Bishop of Oguta Diocese, Bishop Chijioke Otti, traditional title holders, religious leaders, and representatives of various Oguta kindreds and families.
The event marks a turning point in Oguta’s social history, signaling the community’s collective resolve to embrace unity, equality, and progress in the 21st century.
