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The Legacy of the “Leopard Slayer” Title in Oguta, Nigeria

Posters throughout Oguta announce the latest ceremonies celebrating the esteemed title of “Leopard Slayer”.

At 60 years old, Ken Okoroafor, a Nigerian entrepreneur and healthcare professional, has realized a lifelong ambition by being inducted into the esteemed Igbuu Society, a male-only group in his hometown of Oguta, situated in southeastern Nigeria.

Historically, hunting a leopard was not merely an act of courage; it was a ceremonial achievement that granted notable social status. To gain the title of “Leopard Slayer,” or “Ogbuagu” as it is called in Igbo, an individual was required to hunt and kill a leopard, offering its carcass to the local king. The meat from the leopard would then be shared among 25 nearby villages.

Over the years, the tradition has transformed. While earlier generations hunted the big cat themselves, this is no longer a requirement. Ken Okoroafor’s mother recounts how, in 1955, a leopard carcass was displayed in their home when her father received the same accolade—captured for him by a professional hunter. She reminisces about the taste of leopard meat, describing it as “wild and a bit salty.”

As concerns about conservation arose—leading to the decline of leopard populations in the area—the last sacrificial leopard was offered in 1987. Leopards, once common across Nigeria, are now primarily found in protected national parks.

Currently, the ceremonial practice has shifted to a financial equivalent, where a substantial sum, although undisclosed, is distributed among the heads of families in the 25 villages, sustaining the community aspect of this tradition.

Mr. Okoroafor expresses the significance of joining the society: “In Oguta, when you become part of this group, you are granted respect and are involved in key town decisions. This is something I’ve aspired to since childhood.”

Though the tradition has evolved, the first instance of using money as a substitute for a leopard can be traced back to 1942, when Mberekpe Ojirika was unable to furnish a leopard for the ceremony due to mourning his deceased mother. Understanding his circumstances, the Eze Igwe—the traditional ruler of Oguta—allowed a monetary tribute instead. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new tradition.

Victor Aniche, the current secretary of the Igbuu Society and a descendant of Ojirika, recalls his own experience: “In 2012, someone even offered to bring me a live leopard from the north, but I couldn’t agree to the killing of an endangered species.”

Today, the journey to become an Ogbuagu consists of three distinct stages. The initiation often takes place during the communal Christmas season, offering a chance for families and diaspora members to converge. On December 21, Zubby Ndupu, a petrophysicist, began his ceremonial process known as “Igbu Agu,” which reenacts the hunt.

The day’s proceedings commenced early in the morning, gathering in a large tent where members greeted one another in a display of camaraderie. Although the Eze Igwe himself did not make an appearance, a representative was present. The Ogbuagu present sat in a hierarchical arrangement, based on the longevity of their membership. Women were not permitted to engage with the Ogbuagu during the ceremony, creating a palpable sense of tradition.

The ceremonial feast featured traditional delicacies including goat meat pepper soup, nsala soup made from catfish, pounded yam, and palm wine. During the event, Mr. Ndupu was formally presented with a red sash denoting royalty along with sacred beads. Following this, he greeted fellow members, marking his acceptance into the ranks of the Ogbuagu.

After the initial celebrations, Mr. Ndupu participated in a procession to the palace of the Eze Igwe to present the financial offering. The second stage involves a private spiritual segment at the initiate’s home, where sacred items are presented. The final stage, “Ipu Afia Agu,” is the grand celebration of full membership that seeks to honor the initiate on a larger scale.

This culminating event showcases the wealth of the initiate, often accompanied by livestock, fish, and alcoholic beverages, providing for an extensive feast shared with many guests. Recent initiates like Pascal Okey Adizua, a Maryland-based car dealer, illustrate the multi-year journey of achieving this prestigious title.

In Oguta, individuals holding the title of “Ogbuagu” command respect, being able to approach the king without the need to bow and occupying honored positions at significant events. Ceremonial beads, typically worn on the right wrist, signify their esteemed status, complemented by specific attire mandated during traditional gatherings.

“The title ‘Ogbuagu’ is a name of praise,” Mr. Aniche conveys. “It signifies that you are a warrior capable of facing the challenges of the wild.”

Leadership within the Igbuu Society follows a defined hierarchy based on membership length rather than age, enhancing respect for senior members. Current president Emmanuel Udom, in his early 80s, embodies this tradition.

The society remains selective about its members, requiring individuals to possess property, possess a verifiable income, and maintain a clean reputation. Descendants of slaves, known as “ohu,” are traditionally excluded from membership, a legacy some are now striving to change.

“It is time to abolish this outdated system,” urges Oduenyi Nduka, a former secretary of Igbuu. Conversations about inclusion and change are ongoing, aiming to redefine the society’s landscape.

While some critiques suggest that the resources expended on ceremonies detract from community development, proponents argue that the Igbuu Society contributes significantly to local advancements. As Mr. Aniche argues, “The Ogbuagu have cultivated more development in Oguta than others and are significant employers.”

As membership encompasses a global diaspora, many remain closely tied to their heritage, often returning home to celebrate and reconnect with their roots. For individuals like Mr. Okoroafor, having embraced his childhood dream of becoming an Ogbuagu, a renewed commitment to his community springs forth as he plans more frequent visits to his hometown.

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