Unmasking the Ancient Igbo Tradition of Osu: Sacred People and Spiritual Practices πΏπ️
By Jude Obuseh In the annals of ancient Igbo history, the tradition of Osu stands as a complex and enigmatic aspect of society, shrouded in both reverence and controversy. Once considered sacred individuals dedicated to deities, Osu played integral roles in spiritual rituals and practices that shaped the cultural landscape of Igbo land. One of the most striking customs associated with Osu was their role in burial rites for kings and chiefs. In a practice that has since been abolished, Osu were buried alongside royalty, with human heads and live Osu believed to accompany and serve the departed rulers in the afterlife. This ritual, though perceived as barbaric in modern times, underscores the deep spiritual beliefs and practices of ancient Igbo society. The designation of Osu was not solely tied to burial rituals; they also served as dedicated individuals to specific Alusi or deities. π️ Their blood was considered potent for cleansing the land of various atrocities, and they...