pre colonial Igbo

History

Igbo system was decentralized and characterized by principle of acephalous. It was a chiefless society that was segmentary and egalitarian

Family group

Headed by Okpara who was the oldest male. He judged disputes, controlled the family and performed rituals on their behalf

Village council

They were ofo title holders. Made up of okpara of different families. They maintained law and order and settled disputes among families

Ozo title holders

Prestigious, popular and wealthy. Also did development projects

Age grade

Made up of young men of the same age. They policed the village, ensured sanitation and carried out decisions of the council of elders

Ala

Known as goddess of the land which judged cases like murder. The ala priest interpreted the pronouncement of the Ala