17/07/2026
ODOGWU, THE IGBO TITLE NOW SO MISREPRESENTED
Odogwu, without mincing words, is an Igbo word. By the gods, Odogwu is one of those words we have exported beyond the shores of Igboland to the extent that even when you call a white man Odogwu, he has an idea of what you mean, and will most likely smile in appreciation.
But with the growing popularity of the word comes a serious misrepresentation.
Many of the nuances that have defined the true essence of Odogwu for generations are gradually being discarded. Today, almost every wealthy man is called Odogwu. Every generous man is called Odogwu. Every influential man is called Odogwu. While there is nothing wrong with appreciating success or generosity, we must be careful not to distort the meaning of our heritage.
In its true traditional context, Odogwu was never merely a title for a rich man. It was not a celebration of material wealth. Wealth could earn a man respect, but it did not automatically make him Odogwu.
An Odogwu is, first and foremost, a man of uncommon courage. He is a warrior, not necessarily because he carries weapons, but because he possesses the spirit to confront danger when others retreat. He stands firm in defence of truth, justice, his people, and his convictions, even when doing so comes at great personal cost.
Among our forefathers, a man earned the description Odogwu through proven acts of bravery, leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering strength of character. His name inspired confidence among his people and caution among those who sought to oppress them. He was dependable in times of crisis and steady in moments of uncertainty.
And very strangely, some ladies have now started calling some men Odogwu simply because they discovered those men are exceptionally good in the bedroom. Our ancestors would turn in their graves at the very thought. Bedroom prowess is good, no doubt, but it never came to mind when the title Odogwu was conceived.
To such ladies, I say, Tufiakwa!
Without mincing words,
