IGBO AMAKA

IKENGA NDI IGBO

This Igbo hat is called Okpu-Agu (Leopard Hat). It is much older than the red cap. Many modern Igbo people don't know the intrinsic value of this hat and its various meanings. The tail of this hat contains various meanings, depending on how you position it. Only an Nze or Ozo would know the ritual meanings, but now that we are in Uga Anwu, it is okay to enlighten you guys on what they mean so that you'll start wearing them properly.

When you wear the hat with the tail facing back, it means that something is wrong, somebody died, your life is facing Uga Azi. Things are moving backwards for you. When you wear the tail forward, it means that you are going somewhere very important. You are with an Ikenga Odumije. Your life is moving straight forward, no turning back. When you wear the tail facing either left or right, it means that you are in a good mood. You are at a wedding or a celebratory event. You have so much to be thankful for. You are well balanced.

Now that you guys know the mysteries of the Okpu-Agu, be very conscious of how you wear them and respect the rituals.