Evolving Abolition: Historical and Contemporary Anti-Slavery Movements in Southeast Nigeria.

This article explores the complex history and dynamic progression of anti-slavery movements in Igboland, from the colonial period to the present. It examines the cultural and social underpinnings of slave status unique to the Igbo people, focusing on the two main categories: ohu and osu. The study delves into the early localized efforts to abolish slavery, illustrating how these movements were often hindered by colonial government’s misconceptions. Through archival research and interviews with contemporary activists, the paper presents a detailed narrative of these movements’ evolution, culminating in the modern abolition efforts led by organizations like IFETACSIOS. The 2021 abolition initiative in Nsukka is highlighted as a case study to discuss the strategies and ideological underpinnings of current abolition efforts that integrate traditional beliefs and authorities in their methodologies. This article contributes to a broader understanding of how historical legacies influence contemporary social movements and underscores the ongoing challenges and successes in eradicating remnants of slavery in Igboland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]