War in Ibeku Umuahia: The Clash Between the Okonko and White Men
Located in Ohokobe Afara Ibeku, the Faith Terbernacle church below holds a significant historical event in Ibeku Umuahia. This encounter dates back to the arrival of the white men, who were initially slave masters.
The white men, accompanied by self-proclaimed missionaries, arrived in Ibeku from Calabar via Isieke Village. Their mission was to spread a new belief system among the local people and recruit people to be taken overseas as slaves.
During their journey, they found a spot in Ohokobe to construct their church. However, tension arose as the white men began challenging the landowners and infringing upon their territory. They aimed for a complete takeover of the village and discredited the ruling council as they worshiped what the white men deemed as “idols.”
The Okonko, a secret society of wise men and village elders, served as the ruling council that protected the customs and traditions of the tribe. In response to the white men’s oppressive actions, the Okonko decided to take a stand.
The Okonko retaliated by launching a counter-attack on the entire Afara Clan villages, namely Isiama, Okwulaga, and Ohokobe na Umuokeyi. The reprisal lasted for days, with the Okonko brotherhood eliminating many of the white men and recruits. They burned their houses and destroyed the church congregation, causing the remaining villagers, particularly those not originally from Ohokobe, to flee for their lives.
Following the conflict, the white men departed and left the church abandoned for over a century. Despite nearby landowners farming around the structure, no one has come forward to claim ownership due to the fear of being associated with the original members. Attempts to complete the building and take it over have failed, as no one seems willing to join the project.
Today, a new-age church stands nearby, preaching fervently. Meanwhile, the Gothic-style building, which withstood artillery bombardments during the war and has remained roofless for many decades, still stands strong. Though it bears scars, its durability surpasses that of more recent structures.
The story of the Okonko war against the Christian white men in Ibeku Umuahia is just one of many instances where the white men succeeded in destroying local traditions. However, in this particular battle, they were defeated. The building serves as a reminder of this historical clash, evoking an incredible sense of resilience in the face of adversity.
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