The Osu Caste System

In some parts of alaigbo many years ago, people were categorized into Nwadiala (freeborn), Ohu/Osu

It was believed that the ancestors of the Osu group were once offered to the gods and thus, they and their generation forever belong to

the gods.

With this, they can’t freely associate with the free borns and have to live near shrines, far from other villagers.

The Osu were not allowed to associate or have sexual relations with Nwadiala but that didn't stop anything.

They are not allowed to break kola nuts at meetings.

This caste discrimination is very pronounced in marriage, as they are only allowed to marry themselves. The belief is that any freeborn that marries an Osu defiles the family.

As such, families ensure they do all in their power to see that such a marriage never takes place.

The discrimination against the Osu includes: disinheritance, ostracism, organized attack, denial of membership in social clubs, violent disruption of marriage ceremonies,

denial of chieftaincy titles, deprivation of property.

Despite the various laws putting an end to Osu caste system even most recently on the 28th of December 2019 and discrimination as a whole, the practice has continued in some communities against modern day practices.

Have you ever heard of this caste system in your community?

Is it still alive?

What are your thoughts generally on the matter?

Please tell us, we'd love to know.

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