AZIZA AS A CONCEPT AND PRINCIPLE: A BASIS FOR FORMIDABLE AFRICAN SOCIETY

Emmanuel, Ikenna Okafor and Amaechi-Ani,, Nneka Nkiru (2019) AZIZA AS A CONCEPT AND PRINCIPLE: A BASIS FOR FORMIDABLE AFRICAN SOCIETY. In: New Frontiers in Contemporary African Studies. ABIC Publishers, Uwani, Enugu, pp. 309-318. ISBN 978-022-311-8

[img] Text
Document 6.pdf
Download (6MB)

Abstract

This paper examines Aziza as both a spiritual concept and socio-cultural principle, proposing it as a foundational paradigm for constructing a formidable African society. Originating from the cosmological systems of various West African ethnic groups, notably Igbo, Yoruba and Edo, Aziza represents ancestral wisdom, moral consciousness and invisible guardianship over communal life. Far beyond its mystical connotations, Aziza encapsulates values such as truth, justice, integrity, reciprocity and communal responsibility; these elements are crucial to social organization. This paper contends that the decline of indigenous African value systems, exacerbated by colonial disruption and the dominance of Western modernity has contributed to the fragmentation of African societies. By re-centering Aziza as a guiding principle in various spheres of life, Africa can reclaim a pathway towards ethical leadership, social harmony and sustainable development. Methodologically, the paper employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining anthropological. Sociological and philosophical lenses supported by oral tradition and contemporary African thought. This paper concludes that integrating Aziza into contemporary discourse and practice offers a culturally-noted strategy for rebuilding African identity, restoring collective consciousness and strengthening societal resilience in the 21st century.

Item Type: Book Section
Subjects: H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform
Divisions: Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Humanities
Depositing User: Uchenna Eneogwe
Date Deposited: 21 May 2025 10:30
Last Modified: 21 May 2025 10:30
URI: http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/4609

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item
GOUNI Repository is powered by EPrints 3 which is developed by the School of Electronics and Computer Science at the University of Southampton. More information and software credits.