Tab Article

Contrary to George Thomas Basden’s opinion that the condition of Igbo women – in the early twentieth century when he lived among Ndi-Igbo – was pitiable and totally subjugated, the truth is that Igbo women enjoyed a measure of independence, especially in the areas of taking charge of their own affairs and empowering themselves, economically. This fact could be seen in the way they controlled their socio-political organisations such as the Umuada (Association of Daughters) and the Alutaradi (Association of Wives). In Women and Leadership in Igboland Ezeigbo examines women’s leadership roles in three spheres of influence under women’s control: Omoku, Ime Chi and Omugwo institutions. She argues that there were a variety of leadership opportunities open to Igbo women in the past – some of them still exist today and will continue to exist in the years to come – through which they exerted and can still exert their influence to ensure the well-being of their families and communities.