Overview:

Obu House is an ancestral meeting house located in Elu Ohafia, Abia State, Nigeria. It is considered to be the oldest surviving meeting house in the region and was built by the Ukwa/Ngwa people in the 12th century. There is evidence of the house having been used as a place of worship, political discussions, and as a gathering place for members of the local community. It is still used today for traditional ceremonies and as a symbol of the unity of the local people. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Nigeria
Prominent Features:

1. Traditional characteristics – Obu House has a traditional round shape made of mud and thatch. The house usually reflects the traditional Igbo style of architecture. 2. Four Central Pillars – A key feature of Obu House is its four central posts, symbolizing the four important aspects of Igbo life – religion, family, industry, education. The four central pillars are also a reminder of the power of the Supreme Being, Chukwu, in Igbo land. 3. Informal Meeting Place – Obu House is a popular meeting place for villagers of Elu Ohafia. This is a place where members of the community come together to discuss matters of community importance. 4. Symbolic Leaning Poles – In Obu House, there is usually a leaning pole or nkpu which serves as a symbolic holder of ancestral spirits. It also serves to remind people of the importance of seeking divine guidance in all of their daily activities. 5. Sacred Fireplace – Obu House also has a fireplace known as Elo Igwe. This is a sacred symbol of hospitality and it symbolizes the unity and common culture of the entire Elu Ohafia community. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Nigeria.

History:

Obu House in Elu Ohafia, Abia State, is believed to be one of the oldest surviving traditional villages in Nigeria. The village was established around the 17th century by Eze Ndubueze Agha whose descendants still live in the town today. It is believed that the true founder of the village was a hunter called Azuogwu or Ikuku, who became a powerful medicine man in the village and was known as the Eze or King of Obu. Legend has it that around the year 1745, Eze Ndubuze Agha, the second Eze of Obu House, was the first to officially settle the area. He built the first Obu House and established the customs of the village. Throughout its history, Obu House has had many prominent inhabitants and visitors. It is believed that the former Prime Minister of Nigeria, Chief Obafemi Awolowo paid a visit to Obu House in 1976 when he was on a campaign tour of the Eastern Region. He was offered a traditional welcome and was hosted by the then Eze of Obu House. The Eze of Obu House is still respected by the locals and is known as the village's spiritual leader. The traditional customs and practices of the people of Obu are still very much in place and form the basis for the way of life in the village. The village is home to a number of industries and places of employment for the locals. Obu House is also a popular tourist destination, being home to many beautiful sites and attractions such as a traditional dance hall and the Obu Waterfall. Visit one of the famous monuments of Nigeria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Obu House is an important cultural site located in Elu Ohafia LGA of Abia State, Nigeria. 2. Obu House was built in 1908, and it is believed to be one of the oldest surviving structures of Elu Ohafia community. 3. The focal point of this site is believed to be the Obu Room, which is an open space surrounded by traditional walls and gate. 4. Originally it served as a court of law for the Elu Ohafia people, where community crimes were tried and justice was dispensed. 5. Today, Obu House is identified as a meeting place for the community's topmost traditional leaders, including the Eze. 6. An annual New Yam Festival (Iri Ji masquerade) is held every year in September, and is attended by members of the community and visitors alike. 7. The walls of Obu House are also decorated with some fascinating traditional artifacts and paintings, which depicts the history and culture of the Elu Ohafia people. 8. Obu House is open to visitors on a regular basis, as visitors are allowed to view the site and learn about its rich historical and cultural significance. One of the historical monuments of Nigeria, it tells the story of a bygone era