DIBIA NWANGWU UCHENDU

In Igbo contemporary society we name the first daughter in any Igbo family “Ada”. This is because she is the first daughter from her father’s loin whereas there are other female daughters, they are also “Ada” but not in the same spiritual category as the first female womb opener. The birth of this first female child is significant, particularly the first daughter who holds a crucial position as the “Ada”. She is not just the firstborn daughter but also considered a special child who holds a unique position in the family and community. In precolonial times, the “Ada” played significant roles in the family and community, and her status was recognized and valued by all. However, there were disparities in the duties, roles, and responsibilities of the “Ada” in different Igbo communities.

Who is an “Ada” in Igbo society?

In Igbo society, the term “Ada” refers to the firstborn daughter in a family. She is considered a special child with a unique personality and responsibilities. The birth of the “Ada” is celebrated because of the family’s expectations of the special position she holds. The “Ada” is honored, respected and her status gives her certain privileges in the family. The “Ada” is seen as the representative of her parents and her actions would attract judgment to her entire family. She is expected to lead by example by exhibiting good manners, respect for elders, and obedience. The Ada’s significance in the family and community is so profound that the father, who is the head of the family, would not undertake any significant decision without consulting her. This means that Ada’s role transcends the family and extends to the community.

The Duties, Roles, and Responsibilities of the First Daughter in Precolonial Era of the Igbos.

In precolonial Igbo society, the “Ada” played significant roles in the family and community. Her position in the family and community is one of leadership, and as such, she has various duties, roles, and responsibilities. Although there were variations in the roles of the Ada in different Igbo communities, some responsibilities cut across all communities in the Igbo region.
1. In the Family:
The “Ada” played a significant role in her family, and her duties include:

a. Custodianship of the family’s treasures: The “Ada” is responsible for keeping and safeguarding the family’s valuables such as land, precious stones, and heirlooms. She is the primary custodian of the family’s wealth.

b. Bridging the gap between the family and ancestors: The “Ada” represented the ancestors in the family; thus, she had the responsibility of catalyzing and deepening the relationship with the ancestors. The “Ada” is expected to perform various rituals connected to the ancestors, such as libations and sacrifices on behalf of the family.

c. Ensuring the continuity of the lineage: The “Ada” holds the responsibility of carrying the family’s name into the next generation. Marriage was germane to the continuity of the family, and the “Ada” is expected to marry and produce offspring who would continue the family line.

d. Managing the household: The “Ada” plays a vital role in managing the household, which includes supervising the activities of other siblings, preparing meals, cleaning, and maintaining family harmony.

2. In the Community:
The Ada have specific roles and responsibilities in the community, including:
a. Representing the family in communal activities: The “Ada” is considered the spokesperson for the family in the community. She represented the family in communal events and meetings and was expected to speak wisely and diplomatically, particularly when discussing family matters.

b. Preserving the culture of the community: The “Ada” has the responsibility of preserving the community’s traditions and customs. She would teach her siblings and the younger generation about the community’s norms and values and promote cultural practices within the community as it should be.

c. Pioneering development within the community: The “Ada” was considered the development agent within the community. She was expected to initiate development projects such as building schools, health centers, and roads within the community. For instance, we had Awọ mmili in Awka community, comprising of every Ada and other female daughters in Awka. They came together under Awọ Mmili platform cum age grade thus brought massive development in Awka. For instance the establishment of Post Office, Pipe Borne water, Mediation and Conflict resolution among others. They contributed a lot to the society that Awka men became afraid of how they welded their powers in the community. The Ada and her position is strategic and valued. But her roles cut across the management of wealth, leadership positions in the family, representation in communal activities, and development within the community.

Although modernization has eroded some of these roles and responsibilities, the “Ada” is still seen as an essential figure in Igbo society, and her position remains of great value.