The feather on a red cap holds great significance in Igbo cultural society, particularly when it is the feather of an eagle (known as Ugo).
The Igbo people view the Ugo as a unique and highly symbolical creature, giving rise to numerous names derived from it, such as Ugochi, Ugomma, and Ugochukwu.The Ugo is considered a priceless and beautiful bird, rarely seen in everyday life.
This is reflected in the Igbo adage, “Onye hụrụ ugo ṅụrịa maka na a dịghị ahụ ugo kwa daa” (he who sees an eagle should rejoice because it is not seen often).
Another adage, “Anya hụrụ ugo jaara ugo” (eyes that see an eagle should praise it), emphasizes the awe-inspiring nature of the bird.One expression commonly used is “Ugo chi nyere m,” which translates to “the treasure my chi gave me.” This has been shortened to the name Ugochi, which many Igbo people now bear as a significant name.
Another expression, “Ugo Chukwu tubere m,” has been shortened to Ugochukwu and means “the treasure my chi fixed on me.”The name Ugomma carries the meaning of a beautiful treasure.
These English renditions may not capture the full depth of the Igbo worldview, as it cannot be fully expressed using English terminology.In Igbo culture, when something good happens to someone, they are wished “turu ugo.”
This is the equivalent of congratulations or success in English. In the past, when a man achieved success or accomplished something significant, he would place a feather of the Ugo on his hair or cap.
This act would prompt others to exclaim, “Turu ugo!” as a way of acknowledging his achievements.
Wearing a feather on one’s hat signifies more than just fashion. It represents respect, dignity, and success achieved in a virtuous manner.
It differentiates individuals of high esteem and honor from those who simply wear the feather as a fashion statement.
Only the feather of an eagle is used in this practice, as the eagle holds a special place in Igbo culture and worldview.
Before one can be inducted into the esteemed Nze na Ọzọ title, they must be a fulfilled individual without any faults or blame.
This is marked by the attachment of an eagle feather, known as abụba ugo, to their cap.
Similar practices exist in various other titles and positions across different regions of Igbo land.
