ABSTRACT
Scattered here and there throughout the Ibo country, more particularly on the eastern side of the Niger, are certain local deities alleged to possess supernatural powers. They are mainly consulted for purposes of divination. They are not connected in the ordinary sense with the religious system, nor can they be included under the category of secret societies. To a limited extent, they partake of the nature of both and, yet, are quite separate and distinct; their functions are more accurately defined as judicial. They are the instruments for settling disputes and for refuting charges of witchcraft. When reconciliation cannot be effected and feelings run strongly, an appeal is made to the oracle whose verdict is final.
