The Dynamics of Moral Formation in the Modern Igbo Society: The Nnewi Experience

Abstract

Morality is a fundamental value in human life. Without stable moral order no true human development can be realized. With conflicts, tensions, theft, disputes, wars, corruption, drug abuse, alcoholism, prostitution, laziness and violence, nothing substantial can be done as far as societal development is concerned. Different forms of immorality and abuse of human rights endanger the community’s moral order and so hinder human development. In traditional African society, elders were the agent of moral formation. These were people of outstanding moral conduct, highly
respected and who have undergone all necessary rites of passage from childhood to adulthood. Traditionally, elders used different rites, wise sayings, proverbs, riddles and traditional customs and traditions to impact moral values. However, today the society has shunned its elders especially when it comes to moral instruction. The advent of Christianity, western education and money economy affected Igbo cultural heritage, specifically the Nnewi culture that placed more on moral values and custodians of moral formations. Igbo communities have become facilitators of moral decadence. Using cultural discourse Analysis, the study discussed the dynamics of moral formation in the present Igbo society. The
paper recommends that values inherent in the various moral standard to be models for interpersonal relationships rather than projecting ideologies that only arouse tension.

Keywords: Morality, Igbo, Society, Culture.