The Ikwerre ethnic group in Rivers State, Nigeria, firmly asserts that they have no ancestral connection to the Igbo people of the South-East.
They emphasize their distinct ethnic identity in the South-South region of Nigeria. This position was reiterated during the launch of a book titled “Without Prejudice: An Exploration of Ikwerre History,” authored by the late Dick Azunda Hekerem Emejuru.
Sir Mike Elechi, a prominent Ikwerre elder and a member of the Rivers State Civil Service Commission, spoke at the event. He was represented by His Royal Highness Damian Ejiohuo, the Nye Nwe-Ali Ndele in Emohua Local Government Area.
Elechi traced the Ikwerre’s history back to a migration from the ancient Benin kingdom. He recounted that around 1438 AD, a revolution in Benin, triggered by human sacrifices during a festival, led to the assassination of the heir to the throne. The revolution, led by princes Asava, Oniche, Akalaka, and Owiri, caused them to flee eastwards with their families.
Akalaka, one of these princes, settled in Elele (Okani-eli) with his family. His first wife bore two sons, Ekpeye and Ogba, while his second wife had Iwhurohna, Etche, and Ngwa. Following a similar conflict in Elele, Ekpeye and Ogba moved to different areas, while Iwhurohna and his family decided to stay.
The name “Ikwerre” is said to have originated from their decision to remain in Elele, with the phrase “Akwerrile naa soh nii nowa” meaning “we have decided to remain here.”
Former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, represented by Senator Andrew Uchendu, encouraged the Ikwerre people to take pride in their identity and history. Amaechi emphasized the importance of politicians in preserving Ikwerre history and culture. Uchendu addressed Amaechi’s past statement about being Igbo, suggesting that Amaechi could clarify his own remarks.
Bon Woke, the former General Manager of Atlantic Television in Port Harcourt, reviewed the book, describing it as a vital resource for Ikwerre people to understand their roots. He argued that language alone does not determine a people’s ethnicity, as any language can be spoken by anyone.
Woke advised Ikwerre youth to avoid being misled by self-serving politicians and called on Ikwerre leaders and elders to educate the younger generation about their history, culture, and language.
Other notable attendees included Eze Barr. Godspower Onuekwa, President General of Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organization, Worldwide; Prof. Charles Obunwor, royal father of the day; Chief Magistrate E. C Woke; Dr. Sam Emejuru; Dr. Stella Elechi; and Prof. Aaron Ojule, Chief Medical Director of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.
