CHANGES IN IGBO LAND TENURE SYSTEM AND THE CULTURAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

The study examines changes in land tenure system in Igbo land and the cultural implications. There has been changes in traditional Igbo land tenure system. This has led to scarcity of land and introduced problems that are hitherto alien to Igbo land tenure system like land speculations. Most scholars have written on topics related to this study but none had delved into cultural implications of the changes in Igbo land tenure system. The objectives of this study include, to find out changes that have occurred in traditional Igbo land tenure system. It also sets out to highlight causes of the changes and the cultural implications. Theoretical framework will be anchored on social change for analyses. It used qualitative research method to ensure in-depth coverage. Interviews were posed to knowledgeable individuals to gather first-hand information. Scholarly works were also reviewed. Findings reveal that most of the changes in Igbo land tenure system are as a result of colonization and Western culture influence which gave birth to development, increase in indigenous population, and urbanization. It as well reveals that unchecked and uncontrolled land alienation has severed communal ties among Igbo communities and if allowed to continue unabated will eventually make most future progenies strangers in their fathers’ land. The study recommends serious control of the activities of the land speculations by Igbo community leaders. It is important for Igbo nation to bear in mind that their descendants will need land to explore.