Origins of the Nnama Family in Nibo
Nnama hails from the ancient town of Nibo in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State. They belong to the Umu-eleh/Umu-ele clan within Umuenechi, Umuanum Nibo, a sub-clan of the larger Umu-Nzekwe clan.
Nnama Orjiakor: Warrant Chief and Paramount Ruler
In 1896, Nnama Orjiakor (also known as Ojiako) was appointed as a Warrant Chief and Paramount Ruler by Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, under the colonial administration of Lord Lugard. He became one of the prominent leaders during this era, standing alongside other distinguished figures such as Onyeama of Eke, Obi of Onitsha, Idigo of Aguleri, and Eze of Ukpo.
Nnama’s Role in the Customary Courts
That same year, Nnama was appointed as Chief Judge of the Customary Court of Appeal for the Awka Province, serving in this capacity until his death in 1945. His influence extended beyond Awka, as he became a Judge in the Provincial Customary Court of Appeal for the Old Onitsha Province in 1898. This province covered areas now known as Anambra and Enugu States.
The British Recognition of Igbo Royal Families
Rather than imposing new royal families, the British recognized pre-existing royal lineages that had signed the “Instrument of Surrender.” Nnama’s family was among those who maintained authority as British forces advanced across Eastern Nigeria.
Collaboration with the Legendary Okoli Ijeoma
Before British conquest, Nnama served as Deputy Chief Judge of the “Omenuko” Court, led by the warlord Okoli Ijeoma of Ndikelionwu. Their collaboration, cemented by a blood treaty in 1876, allowed Nnama’s sister to marry Okoli’s second son, Crown Prince Nwene Ijeoma.
Nibo’s Surrender and the Fall of Okoli Ijeoma
Nibo was the first town to surrender to the British, with Nnama advising against resistance. Despite his counsel, Okoli vowed never to submit to any ruler and continued fighting until his forces were defeated. In a final act of defiance, Okoli ended his life before the British could capture him.
The Modern Legacy of the Nnama Family
Today, the Nnama family is widely dispersed, with members across the USA, Europe, Africa, and Nigeria. The family’s ancestral home remains at Eze Nnama-Orjiakor Court in Umuenechi, Umuanum Nibo. Among their notable descendants was the late Prof. Samuel Nnama, who served as the Traditional Prime Minister of Nibo from 2014 to 2016. His book on his childhood experiences in Nibo offers a glimpse into the family’s rich history.
