Brief History of Ikerre
Origins and Migration from Benin Kingdom The Ikwerre people trace their ancestry to the great Benin Kingdom, specifically to Ogiso Idu Igodo, the founder of the Igodomigodo Empire in the 9th century AD. The majority of Ikwerre settlements have roots in the old Benin Empire, though some communities like Akpor have different origins.
Akalaka, a noble general and member of the Benin royal family, served as a trusted warrior in the royal palace during the reign of Oba Eweka. When the Oba rose to power through a violent coup against his brother Uwaifeokun, the kingdom descended into civil war. Suspicion fell upon several warriors, including Akalaka, who was accused of conspiracy
The name "Ikwerre" came about during colonial times. When the British colonial administration wanted to acquire the Rumuisi waterfront to build a wharf, they used an Igbo interpreter to communicate with the local chiefs. When asked if they would permit the use of the waterfront, the chiefs responded "aquarelum" (meaning "we have agreed"). The colonial officers heard this as "Ikwerre" and recorded it in the Official Gazette, making it the official name in all government documentation.
Ogbakor Ikwerre Worldwide is a global organization promoting the unity, cultural heritage, and socio-economic development of the Ikwerre people. It was formally registered as "Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organization Worldwide" and has grown into an international network.
Conversation Secretariat Obiri Ikwerre,
East West Road, Alakaia Akpor,
P.O Box 11637
Port Harcourt, Nigeria
0806 461 9108
Monday-Friday (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
Saturday and Sunday: Off