Onitsha’s cultural identity is a unique blend of Benin, Igala, and Igbo influences. The city’s history, geographical location, and plural origins have shaped its distinct culture. Key aspects of Onitsha culture include:

• Royal traditions (Benin and Igala)
• Spiritual beliefs (Igala and Igbo)
• Social system (Igbo)
• Language (Igbo with Benin, Igala, and Yoruba influences)

Onitsha culture encompasses various institutions, customs, and traditions, including:

• Monarchy and chieftaincy system
• Traditional judicial system
• Social organization and hierarchy
• Traditional religious beliefs
• Cuisine
• Mode of dressing

Tradition & Religion

According to Odinigwe Onuora Nzekwu’s “Faith of our Fathers,” Onitsha traditional religion is centered on the belief in a supreme God (Chi Ukwu, Chukwu). The cardinal spiritual beliefs of the Onitsha people include:

1. Invisible worlds: Belief in the existence of invisible realms  where Chi (spirit) resides and to which Ndi Mmuo (ghosts), the invisible human personality which survives after death, return.

2. Reincarnation: Belief in Ino Uwa (reincarnation of that human personality spirit or ghost).

3. Spirit communication: Belief in the reality of communication between the physical and spiritual worlds.

4. Unity with nature: Belief in the interconnectedness of humans and their environment, with components possessing vital forces that make some Alusi (agents of morality).