In this write up we hope to explore the ways and
means the Igbo race defended its territories in pre-colonial times. The different
ways they protected themselves will be explored
In addition to being known for their decentralized
social structures and extensive cultural traditions, the Igbo people were
exceptional at self-defense.
The Igbo lacked fortified cities or standing armies,
which set them apart from other centralized kingdoms in West Africa. However,
they created a novel and efficient military strategy that was perfectly suited
to their social structure and environment. The methods, tactics, and spirit
that Igbo communities used in the pre-colonial era to ward off external threats
are examined in this article.
A Decentralized Defense: Strength in
Numbers
The Igbo social and political structure consisted of
independent communities, each with its own leadership and decision-making
structures. Their military strategy was influenced by this decentralization.
Each community relied on its own able-bodied men to
form a militia to defend itself; there was no one Igbo army. During times of
conflict, these militias were called upon and they were known as fighting men,
or "Ugwunna," which could be interpreted as fighting for honour or
warriors.
Preparation for Battle: Training and Weaponry.
Even though the Igbos had no standing army or formal
military structure they placed a lot of emphasis on being ready for war. Young
men went through physical training, learned how to fight, and handled weapons.
Spears, machetes, swords, throwing knives, and other
weapons made of locally obtainable iron made up their arsenal. Protection was
provided by wood and animal hide shields. Additionally, the Igbo warriors during
this era used poison-tipped ranged weapons like bows and arrows.
Guerilla warfare: The Advantage and Power
of surprise Attack
One of the best strategy employed by the Igbos was
guerilla warfare tactics. It was their greatest strength. A natural advantage
they had was their decentralized communities' location among dense forests and
uneven terrain.
Igbo warriors made the most of these advantages by
engaging in hit-and-run, surprise attacks, and ambushes to harass and
demoralize enemy forces. They were able to navigate through the bush undetected
thanks to their in-depth understanding of the local environment. They struck at
the flanks of their enemies before they could launch a counterattack.
Shrines and Fortifications: Symbolic
Defense Measures
Some Igbo communities did construct symbolic defense
structures, despite not relying on extensive fortifications. Settlements could
be surrounded by ditches and earthworks, and wooden poles could be built as a
temporary defense.
More importantly, the warriors felt a sense of spiritual
protection and also served as a rallying point when they visited shrines to war
deities. Visits to such shrine was to assimilate the powers of their ancestors
and for supernatural fortification. This belief is still prevalent in modern
times and is commonly practiced in most African countries.
Rituals and War: Seeking Divine Favor
The Igbo people held a belief in the spiritual
aspect of conflict. Warriors frequently sought guidance from diviners and
priests prior to engaging in combat in order to win the gods' favor.
In order to pacify the ancestors and boost the
bravery of the warriors, ritual sacrifices and offerings could be made. In the
face of a common threat, these rituals not only helped to strengthen resolve
but also served to bring the community together.
The Rise of War Chiefs: Leadership in
Wartimes
Despite the fact that Igbo society generally
functioned according to a system of titles determined by wealth and
accomplishment, wartime occasionally required the emergence of temporary war
chiefs. These charismatic leaders, chosen for their bravery and strategic
acumen, would lead the defense efforts and command the militia.
Most conflicts could be between neighboring
communities or external aggressors. These conflicts gave rise to the emergence
of military leaders who were thus often called upon to defend both their
communities and others who sort their services.
Beyond Defense: The Military Spirit of
the Igbo
The Igbo way of fighting was not just about defense.
They frequently carried out raids on neighboring communities in order to seize
resources or capture slaves. In addition, other groups in the region sometimes
hired them as mercenaries due to their reputation as fierce warriors and formidable.
A Resilience Legacy
The Igbo military system was successful because of
its adaptability, resourcefulness, and deep connection to the community. The
Igbo communities were able to preserve their autonomy and cultural heritage for
centuries, even though they were confronted by powerful neighbors and external
threats.
This external threats came in the form of colonialist
that subtly invaded the region and colonized them
In conclusion, the Igbo defense tactics shed light
on their social structure, resourcefulness, and unwavering determination to
safeguard their communities. It serves as a reminder that even decentralized
societies can come up with effective strategies to safeguard their way of life
and that resilience and innovation can be found in the most unexpected places.
Do you see similar military tactics exhibited by the
ancient Igbos in our present community and circumstances? Security will always
be an agenda on the table. It is thus imperative that we adopt the security
strategy of all getting involved in protecting and safe-guarding our space.