Who really are your Umunna and what role do they play? A thread
Every time you hear Umunna, it is often when someone is about to take a major traditional step like a wedding or burial. You hear, “Umunna this, Umunna that,” and you begin to wonder, “Who are these Umunna, and why are they always interfering in family matters?”
Well, let’s break it down. Umunna is not just some random group of people poking their noses into your affairs; they are actually your extended family—your blood relatives from your father’s lineage. In Igboland, Umunna is the strongest grassroots institution, a micro-government of sorts, that makes important decisions and settles disputes.
They are the backbone of traditional Igbo society, ensuring that customs and traditions are upheld.
When a young man is ready to marry, it is not just his parents that get involved—his Umunna must give their approval and accompany him to ask for the bride’s hand in marriage.
The same goes for a young woman; it is the Umunna that formally gives her out in marriage. Without their involvement, the marriage is considered incomplete. In this way, Umunna ensures that marriage is not just an individual affair but a family and community commitment.
When there is a dispute—whether it’s over land, property, or even a misunderstanding between relatives—it is the Umunna that steps in first. Before you think of taking the matter to court, your Umunna must try to resolve it. Their judgments are usually respected because they know the history of the people involved and have the wisdom to settle conflicts fairly. In fact, even if a case ends up in a formal court, the judgment of the Umunna is often referenced…
Umunna is also the ultimate support system. If there is a funeral, they are the first to gather, contribute, and ensure the burial is done properly. It is the young men of the Umunna that dig the grave, and they don’t charge a dime for it. But, if you have been ignoring them and acting like you don’t need them, well, don’t be surprised if they are mysteriously absent when you need help.
They also serve as a social security system. If you fall into hard times, your Umunna will gather to support you. This is why the Igbo say, “Onye aghana nwanne ya”—do not abandon your brother. Long before Western insurance systems came into play, the Umunna was already functioning as a traditional insurance system, making sure no one in the extended family was left stranded.
But be warned—Umunna is not all fun and games. They have rules, and if you violate them, there are consequences. If you disrespect the customs, refuse to participate in communal activities, or cause trouble, they will fine you or even impose other traditional punishments. In a way, they act as the first line of law enforcement, ensuring that everyone follows the community’s norms.
So, the next time you hear “Umunna this, Umunna that,” instead of rolling your eyes, remember that they are there for a reason. They are your family, your protectors, your problem solvers, and your greatest support system. Whether it’s marriage, conflict resolution, burial rites, or even day-to-day issues, your Umunna is always there, ensuring that traditions are upheld and that no one is left behind.
In Igboland, no matter how rich, educated, or powerful you are, you still need your Umunna. They are the heartbeat of Igbo communal life, and ignoring them is at your own peril!
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