Nollywood actor and filmmaker Ugezu J. Ugezu sparked conversations online with a powerful statement about Igbo traditional practices. In a post, Ugezu emphasized that anyone who kills, directly or indirectly, cannot be considered a true Dibia (a traditional healer or spiritualist in Igbo culture). Instead, he labeled such individuals as cultists, challenging the misconceptions often portrayed in Nollywood and society. This statement has resonated with many, shedding light on the sacred role of Dibias in Igbo tradition.
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Ugezu J. Ugezu, a veteran actor and cultural advocate, took to Instagram to address a common misunderstanding about traditionalists in Igbo land. He stated, “Anyone who can k!ll another, directly or indirectly, is not a Dibia. Traditionalists are connected to Aja Ani. He/she cannot k!ll for they know the consequences.”
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He further clarified that many who parade themselves as Dibias are actually cultists, hiding their true intentions behind the revered title of a Dibia. Aja Ani, as referenced by Ugezu, is the earth goddess in Igbo mythology, symbolizing fertility, morality, and the sanctity of the earth. According to Igbo beliefs, those who are truly connected to Aja Ani uphold strict moral codes and cannot engage in acts of violence or harm.
The post, which has garnered significant attention, received a wave of reactions from social media users. Many agreed with Ugezu’s perspective, with users like @benfil_ and @Solomon2034 commenting, “True talk,” while @ExcellentWilli4 noted, “This is exactly what it is.” Others, such as @Rozam1030, expanded on the idea, pointing out that evil can hide under various guises, including religious figures like pastors.
However, some users, like @WhyteBlck, took a more critical stance, suggesting that Ugezu himself might embody both roles, commenting, “He’s a cultist and a Dibia.” This diversity in reactions highlights the complexity of cultural perceptions surrounding traditional practices in Nigeria.
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In Igbo tradition, a Dibia is far more than a “native doctor,” a term often misused in popular media. Dibias are spiritual healers, diviners, and custodians of Igbo cultural and moral values. They are divided into various roles, such as *Dibia afa* (divining healers) and Dibia ogwu (herbalists), each serving a unique purpose in the community.
Contrary to the negative portrayals in Nollywood, where Dibias are often depicted as evil, Ugezu’s statement aligns with historical accounts that emphasize their sacred and non-violent nature. Igbo culture places a high value on morality, with the earth goddess Aja Ani and ancestral spirits acting as guardians of justice. Acts such as killing or harming others are considered abominations, and true Dibias, as Ugezu notes, would never partake in such actions due to the spiritual consequences.
