The Use of Masquerade Cult and Umu-Ada Fraternity (Igbo Daughters) for Peace and Conflict Resolution in Eastern Nigeria (Igbo Land)

Abstract

There are some cases, social problems and cultural conflicts experienced in most Igbo communities of Eastern Nigeria. Such social issues are cultural discrimination such as outcasts (Osu), slavery (Ohu), obnoxious widowhood practices, communal clashes and land disputes. The crisis, conflicts, clashes, violence, disagreements and wars that usually come up in most of the Igbo communities in Eastern regions were and are still been handled, managed or been resolved through the use of masquerade cult and daughters of the land (Umu-Ada) to render social justice. The paper discussed the concept of masquerade cult and Umu-Ada fraternity (Igbo daughters) in conflict resolution in Eastern Nigeria. The paper examined the socio-political implications of the treatment given to the slaves (Ohu), outcaste (Osu) and widows to the nations development. The paper also discussed the need to revive the use of such traditional institutions for peace and conflict resolution and the challenges confronting them. The paper therefore recommended government sponsorship for the effective functioning of masquerade cult and Umu-Ada (Igbo daughters) for peace and conflict resolution in Nigeria.