Abstract:
This study is aimed at evaluating the influence of the god of iron on ironworking communities
in Ǹsúkkā cultural area. In the study area, the Supreme God – Chúkwú Òkìkè, Chínēkè or Chúkwú
Ábíàmà is believed to control the affairs of humanity. He is worshipped through intermediaries
such as Ányánwù [Sun God], Àmádíòhà, Áhàjīōkù [fertility goddess], Àlà [earth goddess] and the
god of iron, which is called by different names in the study area such as Ékwéñsū-Úzù, ÒkóróÚdùmè, Chíkèrè Àgùrù and Áshéné. But, how effective is the god of iron in the study area?
To provide answers to this question, ethnographic research method, involving in-depth
structured interviews, field observation and photographic documentations, was used to gather
data on the subject matter while data collected were analysed descriptively. This article is of
the view that the influence of the god of iron in the study area is whittling down as a result of
Westernisation and Christianity.
CONTRIBUTION: The study indicates an increasing resistance to the Euro-centrism, which has
suppressed beliefs in the god of iron and the associated practices.
