Ihechiowa New Yam Festival

Proud Ihechiowan Community in London

We are a close-knit group of individuals hailing from the picturesque Ihechiowa Community in the Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. Embracing our heritage and roots, we have come together in London, UK, to uphold our traditions, promote cultural exchange, and support one another in this vibrant city. Our passion for preserving our heritage binds us as we navigate the dynamic landscape of London, creating a warm and welcoming space for all Ihechiowans. Join us on this enriching journey of unity and camaraderie.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF IHECHIOWA

Ihechiowa is a historically significant autonomous Igbo-speaking community within Arochukwu Local Government Area in Abia State, Nigeria. It is the second largest clan by land size in the area and consists of 17 villages, each led by a village head. We share ancestry and cultural ties with other Igbo communities like Abam, Edda, Ohafia, and Ututu. 
Key aspects of Ihechiowa's historical background:
  • Igbo Identity: Ihechiowa is an Igbo-speaking community, part of the larger Igbo ethnic group in southeastern Nigeria. 

  • Warlike Nature: Historically, Ihechiowa, along with other Igbo communities, was described as warlike in pre-colonial times. 

  • Migration and Settlement: Ihechiowa's ancestors, along with others from Abam, Ututu, and Ohafia, may have been part of migration waves across the Niger River. Oral traditions suggest we sojourned in areas like Uturu, Ibeku, and Ihenta (now in Ohafia) before settling in our current location. 

  • Arochukwu Local Government: Ihechiowa is one of the five clans that make up Arochukwu Local Government Area. 

  • Political Structure: Each of Ihechiowa's 17 villages is headed by a village head known as the Eze Ogo and also a political Autonomous Chief.  The villages has a traditional government system, with a council of elders and a monarch (Eze Ogo).- The Eze is the highest traditional authority, responsible for maintaining peace, settling disputes together with the council.

  • Relationship with other Igbo Communities: While Ihechiowa shares a common history and ancestry with other Igbo communities, we also maintain our unique identity within the Arochukwu area. 

  • Historical context: Arochukwu is part of the Aro Confederacy and played a significant role in the Anglo-Aro War. 

Ihechiowa's historical background is intertwined with the broader history of the Igbo people, the migration patterns, and the development of Arochukwu as a distinct region within Nigeria.

 

Our Dedicated Team

Meet the passionate individuals driving Ihechiowa Development Union in the UK.

Chief, Sir, Bar. Kachi Agwu

Acting Chairman IDU UK and Vice Chair IDU Worldwide, a community leader dedicated to uniting Ihechiowa members and preserving our heritage.

Dr. Uchenna Ota, MBBS, MRCOG, FRCGP

Secretary IDU UK and a philanthropy, a community leader dedicated to uniting and championing healthcare in Ihechiowa and preserving our heritage.

Dr. Okoko Kalu

Honorary Treasurer IDU UK and a philanthropy, a community leader dedicated to uniting and championing healthcare in Ihechiowa and preserving our heritage. values reach every member effectively.

Chief, Mrs. Magdeline Agwu

Women Leader IDU Women UK and a prominent voice IDU Worldwide, a community leader dedicated to uniting Ihechiowa members and preserving our heritage.

Mrs. Lovina Kalu

Women Leader IDU Women UK and a prominent voice IDU Worldwide, a community leader dedicated to uniting Ihechiowa members and preserving our heritage.

Dr. Okoko Kalu

Financial Secetary IDU Women, a community leader dedicated to uniting and championing healthcare in Ihechiowa and preserving our heritage. values reach every member effectively.

Mrs. May George-Kalu

Women Leader IDU Women UK, a community leader dedicated to uniting Ihechiowa members and preserving our heritage.

Mr. Sunday Kalu (SK)

Deputy Secretary IDU UK, a community leader dedicated to uniting Ihechiowa members and preserving our heritage.

Bar. Mike Ntochukwu

Legal Rep. IDU UK, a community leader dedicated to uniting and championing healthcare in Ihechiowa and preserving our heritage. values reach every member effectively.