A bond unbroken in the enduring embrace of a fractured world.
SIR: The Igbo proverb, Onye aghala nwanne ya – do not leave your kinsman behind – encapsulates a profound ethical and social framework that has historically defined Igbo society. Rooted in a deep sense of communalism and mutual support, this principle permeated every facet of life, from agricultural practices and dispute resolution to social welfare and spiritual beliefs.
However, the relentless tide of modernity, characterised by rapid urbanisation, burgeoning individualism, and often harsh economic realities, poses significant challenges to the traditional expressions of this core value.
My discussion delves into the intricate interplay between Onye aghala nwanne ya and the forces of modernity, examining whether traditional kinship obligations are indeed weakening or, perhaps more intriguingly, finding new and adaptive expressions in the contemporary Igbo experience.
Historically, the strength of Onye aghala nwanne ya was inextricably linked to the tightly knit structure of Igbo village life. Kinship ties formed the bedrock of social organisation, providing a robust safety net for individuals and families. The extended family system ensured that responsibilities for caregiving, financial assistance, and social support were widely shared.
Birth, marriage, and death were communal affairs, reinforcing the interconnectedness of individuals and the collective responsibility for one another’s well-being. The success of one was often seen as the success of the lineage, and the failure of one reflected on the entire kin group. This inherent interdependence fostered a culture where leaving a kinsman in need was not only socially unacceptable but also practically detrimental to the collective strength and cohesion of the community.
The advent of urbanisation has undeniably disrupted this traditional landscape. As individuals migrate from rural communities to urban centres in search of economic opportunities, the physical proximity that once facilitated constant interaction and mutual support diminishes. The anonymity of city life can erode the strong social bonds inherent in village settings. Individuals often find themselves surrounded by diverse populations with varying cultural norms and priorities, potentially diluting the exclusive focus on kinship obligations.
The pressures of urban living, including high costs of living, competition for resources, and the pursuit of individual success, can further strain the capacity and willingness to adhere strictly to traditional expectations of communal support.
The rise of individualism, a hallmark of modern societies, presents a philosophical challenge to the collectivist ethos of Onye aghala nwanne ya. Modern education systems and the emphasis on personal achievement can foster a sense of self-reliance and individual responsibility that may, at times, clash with the expectation of constant reliance on and obligation to extended family.
The pursuit of personal goals and the accumulation of individual wealth can lead to a re-evaluation of the extent to which one is willing or able to share resources with a wider kinship network, especially when those resources are perceived as hard-earned and essential for personal advancement.
Economic hardship, a pervasive reality in many developing nations including Nigeria, adds another layer of complexity to the equation. While the spirit of Onye aghala nwanne ya might remain strong, the capacity of individuals and families to provide meaningful support can be severely limited by their own economic struggles. Unemployment, underemployment, and the rising cost of living can stretch resources thin, making it difficult to meet the demands of numerous kinsmen seeking assistance with education, healthcare, housing, or business ventures. This economic strain can lead to difficult choices and, at times, a perceived weakening of traditional obligations, not necessarily due to a change in values but out of sheer necessity.
The enduring embrace of Onye aghala nwanne ya suggests that while the forms may evolve, the fundamental principle of not leaving one’s kinsman behind remains a powerful and defining characteristic of Igbo identity in the 21st century. The challenge lies in navigating the complexities of modernity in a way that preserves the essence of this vital cultural value while adapting it to the realities of a rapidly changing world.
