Reviewed By Prince Charles Dickson PhD
“A System and A People: Exploring Tradition, Economy, and Cultural Resilience”
Introduction:
“Igba Boi: Profit and Prejudice” is a thought-provoking and compelling book that explores the complex intersection of profit-seeking and prejudice in contemporary society. Written by a talented author, the book delves into the challenging dynamics of capitalism, discrimination, and social inequality. With a captivating narrative and sharp analysis, the author takes readers on a journey to examine the consequences of profit-driven motives and the pervasive impact of prejudice on individuals and communities. In this case the Igbos!
It is a compelling and insightful book that delves into the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people in Nigeria by exploring the intricacies of their traditional apprentice system. Written by an esteemed scholar with deep knowledge of Igbo society, the book offers a comprehensive analysis of the apprentice system’s historical origins, economic significance, and cultural resilience. It provides a nuanced understanding of this age-old practice, shedding light on its complexities and the enduring legacy it holds within the Igbo community.
I am happy that the author breaks the book into two scintillating parts, with titles that catch the sight, and evokes curiosity to read. With Part One laced with
1. Igba Boi (Apprenticeship) – A Brief
2. The Coming Of His Recess
3. A Gift From The Civil War
4. He Never Says No
5. Seminar Or Beer Parlor
6. The Young Shall Grow
7. The Domestication Of The Apprentice
8. Bargain, Profit And The Other Secret Recipe
9. No Business With Love
10. 7 Year Thesis
11. 1 Boy 5 Jobs, 5 Boys 1 Job
12. Night Devotions And Board Meetings
13. Why He Gets Into Trouble
And Part Two a potpourri of
1. One Will Not Forgive And The Other Will Not Forget
2. Poisoned Couples Remain The Medicine Of A Poisoned Marriage
3. Insights From The Diaspora
4. The Igbo Complex
i) They are humans
ii) The enigma
iii) Held in admiration and contempt
iv) They sin (but are not the sin)
v) Accept praise but not criticism
vi) They nag (and nagging is hardly creative)
vii) They suffer and offer prejudice
viii) The burden of first complaint
ix) Minority of the majority
x) Arrogance-induced jealousy
xi) The question of religion
5. Prejudice Prempts And Blinds
I randomly love Seminar Or Beer Parlor, 1 Boy 5 Jobs, 5 Boys 1 Job and off course at the heart of the second part is The Igbo Complex, then I choose to readdress Night Devotions And Board Meetings with a different wrapper.
The Igbo apprenticeship system is a time-honored tradition among the Igbo people of Nigeria, characterized by a unique form of mentorship and skill acquisition. One of the essential aspects of this system is the inclusion of night devotions and board meetings. I believe here the author aims to shed light on the cultural, social, and economic dimensions of these activities and their impact on the development and preservation of Igbo cultural heritage.
For example, the Night Devotions are spiritual gatherings that take place within the apprenticeship system, typically in the evenings. They involve prayers, songs, and religious rituals led by experienced mentors or designated spiritual leaders who double as their boss, their roles reversed.
Cultural Significance: Night devotions serve as a means to inculcate religious and moral values in apprentices, reinforcing the spiritual aspect of their training. It fosters a sense of community and unity among apprentices and mentors, creating a supportive and nurturing environment.
Summary:
The book begins by tracing the historical roots of the Igbo apprentice system, taking readers on a journey through time to understand how this tradition came to fruition. The author skillfully explores the cultural and economic factors that shaped the development of the system, illustrating its evolution over generations. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book vividly portrays the structure and dynamics of the apprentice system, highlighting the roles of masters, apprentices, and the wider community.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its thorough exploration of the economic significance of the apprentice system. The author adeptly illustrates how skills acquisition and knowledge transfer during apprenticeship contribute to entrepreneurship and economic development in Igbo communities. Readers gain valuable insights into the role of apprenticeship in promoting social mobility and wealth creation, underscoring its lasting impact on the Igbo society’s economic fabric.
Moreover, the book delves into the cultural significance and social cohesion fostered by the apprentice system. It delves into the ways in which the system serves as a vehicle for the transmission of cultural values, norms, and traditions. The author adeptly shows how apprenticeship goes beyond skill acquisition, fostering strong bonds and social networks among apprentices and their masters. This aspect of the book highlights the integral role apprenticeship plays in the preservation of Igbo cultural identity and community cohesion.
The author does not shy away from addressing the challenges faced by the Igbo apprentice system in contemporary times. The book acknowledges the impact of modernization, urbanization, and globalization on apprenticeship, and explores how the system has adapted to these changing dynamics. This honest assessment allows readers to grasp the complexities of sustaining the tradition in the face of modern challenges.
Evaluation:
The book is a meticulously researched and well-written book that provides a comprehensive understanding of the Igbo apprentice system. The author’s depth of knowledge and clear passion for the subject matter shines through, captivating readers and inviting them to appreciate the richness and resilience of Igbo culture.
The book successfully combines historical analysis, economic insights, and cultural exploration to paint a holistic picture of the apprentice system. The author’s ability to bridge academic rigor with engaging storytelling makes this book accessible to a wide range of readers, from scholars and researchers to general enthusiasts of African culture.
While the book excels in its exploration of the Igbo apprentice system, it would have benefitted from further inclusion of personal anecdotes or case studies to provide a more intimate perspective on the experiences of apprentices and masters. Additionally, a deeper analysis of the gender dynamics within the apprentice system would have added another layer of complexity to the narrative.
Conclusion:
The book is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in understanding the Igbo culture and the intricacies of the apprentice system. It offers a compelling and comprehensive analysis of this traditional practice, exploring its historical roots, economic significance, and cultural resilience. The book’s thought-provoking content and engaging writing style make it an invaluable addition to the literature on African traditions and cultural heritage. Ahamefuna Review.
“Igba Boi: Profit and Prejudice” is a timely and important contribution to the discourse on social justice, providing a valuable perspective on the need to address the detrimental impacts of profit-oriented systems while combating prejudice and fostering inclusivity.
Overall, this book provides a captivating journey into the heart of the Igbo apprentice system, unveiling its hidden treasures and fostering a deeper appreciation for the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Igbo people. How can I end without restating that the Igbo apprenticeship system has traditionally been male-dominated, which raises questions about inclusivity and opportunities for women to participate fully. Exploring ways to address these gender dynamics and promote inclusivity within the system is crucial.
