“Ibom Abali”, an Aro concept, which drives a discreet consultation mechanism, was brought to the fore as one of the panaceas, which oiled the wheel of peace and unity in Aro Kingdom for a long time; according to a keynote address, delivered by Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa ( Ugwu Aro, Ugboma Eji Aga Mba), at the All Aro National Conference, held on the 25th of July, 2025 at the Arochukwu Civic Center Complex, Oror.
His third point says, “Thirdly they were very consultative hence no conflict was allowed to fester for long, hence the concept of ” Ibom Abali”, because the matter must be resolved before daybreak.”
Prior to this address, I would say that, I had an erroneous opinion of “Ibom Abali.” An opinion formed by what I have heard, and seen people display; when they want to embark on discrete lobbying to garner support for personal, or group agenda. Example: “Don’t worry, hapu ya; ama agara ya Ibom Abali.”
Interestingly, this paper have opened my eyes, heart and mind, to the metaphor, which this concept naturally embodies; which is more like a coin with two distinct sides.
Side One: Resolution and Harmony
As Mazi stated, ” They were very consultative hence no conflict was allowed to fester for a long time because the matter must be resolved before daybreak. “On this side of the coin, “Ibom Abali” symbolizes the harmonious pursuit, and resolution of peace. It reflects the desire to address conflicts and challenges through discreet, behind-the-scenes consultations. This aspect of Ibom Abali fosters unity and cooperation, enabling individuals to find common ground and work towards mutually beneficial outcomes.
Side Two: Manipulation and Self-Interest
On the second flip of the coin, which was my earlier understanding of “Ibom Abali”, as I stated, can be likened to the classic parable of ” The six blind men and the elephant”. The story was told about six blind men, who encountered an elephant for the first time. Each touching the animal at different parts described it from his limited knowledge. The story however teaches us that, individual knowledge/ experience can be partially true, but not the whole truth. This flip side of the coin of “Ibom Abali”, addresses that aspect of partial truth.
This aspect highlights the potential for individuals to exploit discreet consultations for personal gains, leveraging support and influence to further their own agendas. This ugly side of “Ibom Abali” have made many people like me, see this concept as an altar of highest bidder; where people’s consciences are sold, and bought for 30 pieces of silver. Wrong decisions have been taken in the past because, many people chose to operate with the negative side of the coin. It is likened to the concept of “Aro di omimi.” I have listened to people, who are not courageous enough to speak the truth hide under the use of Aro axiom to say, “Aro di omimi”, another misconception of a positive concept.
Interestingly, the duality of this concept underscores the importance of navigating Ibom Abali with caution and discernment.
In essence, the metaphor of Ibom Abali serves as a reminder that discreet consultations can have two sides: one promoting harmony and resolution, and the other potentially breeding manipulation and self-interest.
Let us further examine the significance of “Ibom Abali”, within Aro culture ; and how we can adapt it, to align with Aro Renaissance Era.
Significance
An intentional dive into the dual nature of “Ibom Abali”, takes one to multifaceted cultural significance, which presents a valued tradition of discreet consultation, reflecting the importance of sociocultural harmony, and strategic relationship building.
These we can see in:
1. Conflict Resolution Mechanism
Recall that, “No conflict was allowed to fester for long… because the matter must be resolved before daybreak.”
So, this mechanism addresses disputes and conflicts, through behind the scenes dialogue, promoting reconciliation, and unity. This goes to prove the concept of “Aro n’akpa isi okwu, wo anaghi ese okwu” (Aro discusses subject matter, they do not quarrel) – Mazi Emma Kanu Ivi (Ogeneukwu Aro) has always emphasized that disputes are addressed headlong, therefore, does not give room to fester.
2. Leadership and Influence
This also can serve as a platform, where the leadership, and stakeholders in the Kingdom can meet , and reason together, review decisions, and guide actions in the community; thereby, highlighting the importance of wise counsel and purposeful leadership.
3. Community Bonding
From what we have seen already, Ibom Abali can be said to be that glue that binds social, and communal ties. This is achieved through shared consultations and mutual support.
“Ibom Abali” generally underscores the Aro ethos and values of:
- Wisdom is the journey of life – Ako bu Ije
- Value on persona, not wealth – Nwa Aro Icho, Mkpoola Icho
- Discretion, and strategic thinking – Nwa Aro asughi nsu, O gbaa ama.
Raising The Stake of Ibom Abali To Incorporate Aro Renaissance
Digitalization
The world is said to be a global village. Digital Platforms like: WhatsApp, Telegram, Google Meet, etc can be utilized to facilitate discreet consultations. The traditional Ibom Abali takes its name from ” Abali” when the movement is made, to actually keep it discreet. However, influence of cultural dynamism, has made it possible for Ibom Abali to thrive in the day light, using online forums as I mentioned earlier.
This makes it accessible, inclusive, and convenient.
Transparency and Accountability
The modern mechanism if incorporated, will promote transparency and accountability in the process of Ibom Abali. It will also promote fairness and justice because, of wider consultation.
Inclusivity
As I mentioned earlier, modern Ibom Abali initiatives should be inclusive. It should be able to accommodate diverse community members, regardless of the background, and socioeconomic status; in the spirit of ” Nwa Aro Icho, Mkpoola Icho”. Consultations require wisdom, not social status, etc.
Training and Education
Tradition and culture are preserved by handing over from generation to generation. It is therefore expedient, that Aro elders, and stakeholders, educate the younger ones, on the principles and best practices of Ibom Abali. This will keep the concept in track from generation, to generation.
In conclusion, if we can intentionally adapt Ibom Abali to align with the idles of Aro Renaissance, then, we can conveniently preserve the benefits thereof, by way of passing to generations as in education, as mentioned earlier . This will make it more effective and relevant in the Renaissance era.
Aro mma mma nni !
