Aku people believe that there is a continuous genealogical connection between the patrilineal lineages of the living and the dead. This is said to be consummated in the Kempt Psychic Union between the living and the dead which is dependent on mutually beneficial cooperation and protective partnership. As a result, a traditional Aku man believes in the Supreme God (Ezechitoke Abiama), as well as in the lesser gods such as the deities, and the nature Spirits, among others. This belief strengthens the traditionalists’ disposition to accept as given the endless cooperation between the living and the dead; the reality of reincarnation, and the constant re-visitation of the dead in form of masquerades. The belief is also strengthened by the rejuvenation of the dead (for those of them adjudged by the gods to have lived a good life) and had a “clean bill of health” while they lived on earth. What a treatise? Ezike Chidiogo Amadi, a veteran broadcaster and humanist, discusses this topic in a manner that brings reason to act upon the evidence of senses. The article was initially published in the Okikpe Magazine, Vol. 1, 1974 by the Aku Undergraduates’ Union, pp. 30-34. Follow the link below for the detailed account.
OUR COMMUNION WITH THE DEAD
BY
EZIKE CHIDlOGO AMADI
