It is important to address a common misconception regarding the Igbo interpretation of Ekwensu. While many of us grew up associating Ekwensu with the Christian Satan, it is vital to delve deeper and gain a more insightful understanding.

As I embarked on a journey to explore African spirituality and culture, I became fascinated by the being known as Ekwensu, who had instilled fear in us as children and was often affiliated with hell.

To my astonishment, extensive research revealed that Ekwensu is not the Satan or Devil of Christianity. However, I acknowledge that many of us are already acquainted with this fact. Ekwensu is actually a trickster god within Igbo mythology, serving as the Divine Principle of bargains. Known for his cunning in trade and negotiations, he is often called upon for guidance in challenging mercantile situations. Furthermore, he embodies the forces of chaos and change, which in his more fierce aspects, granted him the title of the god of War and Victory, ruling over the tumultuous powers of nature. It is important to note that his association with violence stems from inciting individuals to perform violent acts. Consequently, after a period of war and the establishment of peace, Ekwensu’s chaotic nature is often banished from the people to prevent further conflicts.

One must recognize that Ekwensu served as a testing force or counterbalance to Chukwu, the benevolent God. This highlights the significance of balance in nature, a concept deeply understood by our ancestors. Both Ekwensu and Chukwu symbolize divine principles residing within us.

Contrary to popular belief, Igbo spirituality does not encompass the existence of a physical devil or god. Igbo deities are principles that manifest within us and the universe, harmonizing our higher and lower selves. It is the clash between good and evil that occurs within our own minds. Striving to embrace goodness,  enables us to conquer the inclination to harm others.

However, the presence of both energies is necessary in our lives. When engaging in war, punishing offenders, or seeking retribution, we activate the Ekwensu energy. Therefore, when  people commit wrongdoing, attributing it solely to the work of the Devil or Satan is misguided. Instead, they have given in to their lower selves (Ekwensu energy) when it was not intended to be utilized. Ultimately, this battle occurs within our minds. When we pass on and return to the realm of the Ancestor-Gods, we will be held accountable for how we harnessed our positive and negative energies bestowed upon us by Chukwu, the Feminine and Masculine Divine Life Force upon our birth.

The concept of Divine Judgement predates the introduction of Abrahamic religions, which presented a distorted version of Igbo spirituality. It is important to note that during the advent of Christianity, when colonialism and missionary activities thrived, deities such as Seth, Èsù, and Ekwensu were transformed into Christian Satan figures due to their respective attributes.

It is crucial to acknowledge that Ekwensu is not confined to hell, did not instigate a war in heaven, and did not deceive mythical Adam and Eve with a forbidden fruit.

When European influences established Christianity in Africa, they encountered one predicament: the absence of the Devil in the African spiritual pantheon. Consequently, they fashioned the devil from Igbo  gods. It is worth mentioning that there are people and villages in Igboland that bear the name Ekwensu, such as Obiekwensu, the community of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Lekwensu in Umueneochi LGA (Abia state), and Umunkwensu in Enugu State. Cyprian Ekwensi, a renowned writer, also shares a dialectical variation of the name Ekwensu. Ultimately, these instances showcase the commonality and linguistic variations of the term Ekwensu, symbolizing the god of trade and trickster.

It is unjust for Africans to equate our spiritual system with the fear-based ideologies of the Abrahamic religions, rooted in the notion of hell. Igbo gods represent divine principles residing within us, elevating us to godlike beings in human form, intricately connected to the Universe, and manifesting the power of Divinity on Earth. Satan is not Ekwensu; he is the Devil. Nevertheless, if one asserts that the Igbo name for Devil is Ekwensu, it is essential to also disclose Jesus’ Igbo name.

Let us embrace a deeper understanding of Igbo spirituality and honour the rich tapestry of our ancestral traditions.

I had never heard of him until yesterday. It appears that he was a popular movie star.

No Pappy water or Mammy water killed this fine young man! Nobody jazzed him! He didn’t need to pour Fanta or any soda into the river before the ill-fated trip. The accident was properly prepared for, even before he stepped into the boat..
Nigeria simply happened to him.
Another avoidable death!
Accidents happen when several accident prevention barriers are broken.

1. Imagine where our safety laws were being enforced! Boat operators would never have been allowed to operate without safety training, meeting safety requirements; boat drivers would have been adequately trained; boats would have had safety facilities; passengers would have been provided with life jackets, and premobilisation inductions before every trip.

2. Imagine how many people would have been employed in that sector!

3. Imagine where we had lifeguards! They would have been at the scene of the accident before you blink an eye! He and other victims would have been rescued.

4. Imagine where the movie industry was strictly being regulated! They would have ensured that all movie production complied with all safety laws.

5. Imagine where his death would have had consequences on those that sanctioned an unsafe movie operation, and the owners of the boat & their driver!

6. Imagine where he took personal responsibility for his own safety.  He wouldn’t have boarded that boat. He may have asked for a life jacket! He may have rejected that role, but he had mouths to feed!

7. Imagine where citizens like him and you were busy asking for good governance, you may have been employed in that sector to regulate and enforce our maritime laws.

8. Imagine where you were not defending your leaders and abusing those asking for you to be treated as human beings, they would have ensured that laws were enforced and that consequences are imposed.

After the reggae play the blues…, his death will go just like many others, we move on, waiting for the next, and we converge on social media to blame Mammy water!

I’m sure that many of you will abuse me and ask me to return to Nigeria to contest elections as President!

I hope we learn!

As we look ahead to the dynamics of power and influence in the coming years, it’s essential to consider the various factors that could contribute to the downfall of prominent figures. Among these factors, the influence of spouses often plays a significant role, shaping decisions and perceptions in both public and private spheres. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the potential impact HH’s wife could have on his trajectory in 2026.

HH, a figure of considerable influence and power, faces a crucial juncture in his career and public standing. While external forces such as political turmoil and economic challenges undoubtedly pose significant threats, the dynamics within his inner circle, particularly the role of his wife, cannot be underestimated.

The Power Behind the Throne:
In many cases, the influence wielded by a leader’s spouse is subtle yet profound. HH’s wife, positioned as a confidante and advisor, holds sway over decisions and actions that could shape the course of his leadership. Whether through direct involvement in strategic matters or through her ability to influence HH’s mindset and priorities, her role is integral to his success or downfall.

Potential Areas of Influence:
1. Image Management: A leader’s public image is often carefully curated, with the spouse playing a vital role in shaping and maintaining it. In 2026, any missteps or controversies involving HH’s wife could tarnish his reputation, eroding public trust and support.

2. Decision-Making: Behind closed doors, the advice and opinions of a leader’s spouse can carry significant weight. If HH’s wife harbors conflicting interests or pushes for decisions that are perceived as detrimental, it could lead to internal discord and weaken his leadership.

3. Personal Well-being: The well-being of a leader’s spouse can impact their effectiveness and focus. Any personal struggles or scandals involving HH’s wife could distract him from his duties, opening the door for external adversaries to exploit vulnerabilities.


To mitigate the risks posed by his wife’s potential involvement in his downfall, HH must prioritize transparency, communication, and accountability within his inner circle. By fostering an environment of trust and collaboration, he can address any concerns or conflicts before they escalate into crises.

Additionally, HH must remain vigilant against external influences seeking to exploit divisions within his camp. By maintaining a united front and staying true to his principles, he can weather the storm and emerge stronger from any challenges that arise.


As HH navigates the complexities of leadership in 2026, the role of his wife looms large as a potential catalyst for either success or downfall. By recognizing the significance of her influence and taking proactive steps to address any risks, he can chart a course toward stability and resilience in the face of adversity. The coming year will undoubtedly test the strength of their partnership and the resilience of HH’s leadership.