Category Dibia

Discover the world of traditional Igbo healers, known as Dibia, through images and descriptions of their practices, tools, and significant roles in Igbo society.

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Dibia

A Dibia with His Tools, 1921

This 1921 photograph from G.T. Basden’s “Among the Ibos of Nigeria” presents an Igbo dibia in action, surrounded by his tools. The dibia, a respected figure in Igbo society, is known for his extensive knowledge of herbal medicine and his role as a spiritual intermediary between the physical and spirit worlds.

Onyeka Nwokike
7 June 2024

Alusi/Arushi, Dibia

An Igbo shrine with its priest and it’s slave in Orsu, West Isuama Igbo. 1930s

This photograph, captured by G. I. Jones in the 1930s, showcases a central figure in Igbo belief systems – the Alusi shrine with its priest seated and it’s slave standing behind the figure. These sacred figures, traditionally crafted from wood, mud, or a combination of both, served as a powerful link between the physical world and the spirit realm.

Onyeka Nwokike
18 March 2024