A Person with Disability (Onye Ọrụsị) Vs (Onye Nkwarụ): Traditional and Cultural Mythological Model of Disability
Introduction
Igbo has
two terms that can be used to describe people with any types of disabilities: blind, deaf, dumb, physical impairments, mental
disorders, and cognitive disabilities. They often refer to them as (Ọrụsị) for
some, and others may refer to them as (Nkwarụ). Both terms can refer to people with
disabilities but the former (Ọrụsị) leans more on stereotypes than the latter (Nkwarụ).
In this writing, there will be clear definitions between the two terms and at the end, a persona called Chikodi Nwajagu will be used to establish that a person with disabilities has rights to live independently, like everyone in the society and enjoin life as well as contribute to the society as much as possible. Also, following the arguments of the theoretical models of disability, this writing argues for a traditional and cultural mythological model of disability.
We will consider this outline:
Onye Ọrụsị (A person with disability)
In Igbo culture, when a person with disabilities is labeled
as "onye orusi", it often carries a range of connotations that can be
quite complex. Unfortunately, in many traditional societies, including parts of
the Igbo culture, there can be stigmatization or negative stereotypes
associated with disabilities.
Stereotypically, "orusi" may imply: The person is
perceived as having physical limitations. They may be viewed as lacking
something, such as mental acumen, physical strength, or even complement
development. Hence, at times, they are described as handicapped, meaning that
they are disadvantaged which can lead to social, political or even religious
ministerial exclusions, or social prejudice, neglect, rejection and isolation.
Social Exclusion Equation
Let's consider this equation:
Impact of Social Exclusion = 2 × Disability
Here, the term "Disability" represents the
challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. When we multiply this by
two, we're essentially doubling the impact, highlighting how social exclusion
or rejection can exacerbate the difficulties experienced by these individuals.
Explanation
Imagine a person with a disability already facing physical,
mental, or developmental challenges. These challenges are significant on their
own, but when we introduce social exclusion or rejection into the equation, the
impact becomes magnified. This is because social exclusion can lead to:
- Increased Isolation: The individual might feel cut off from social support networks, friends, and community activities, leading to a heightened sense of loneliness and isolation.
- Reduced Opportunities: Social rejection can limit access to education, employment, and social engagement, making it even harder for the person to thrive and achieve their potential.
- Emotional and Mental Strain: Facing social exclusion can take a toll on mental health, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and a lower sense of self-worth.
In essence, the equation demonstrates that the impact of a
disability is not just a matter of the disability itself but is significantly
amplified by the negative effects of social exclusion and rejection. Therefore,
promoting inclusion, understanding, and support is crucial in mitigating these
compounded challenges.
Onye Nkwarụ (A person with disability)
At the same time, in the Igbo language, the term "nkwarụ"
refers to disability. This is a broader sense, the term that can be used to
describe various forms of disabilities, including physical, mental, and
developmental challenges.
Igbo people always make references to eventualities in their
worldview to the spirit world and gods. Thus, the understanding and perception
of "nkwarụ" within the Igbo community have been influenced by
traditional beliefs and cultural practices. In some cases, disabilities were
viewed through the lens of spirituality, karma, repercussions or superstitions,
leading to stigmatization and exclusion. However, with increasing awareness and
education, these perceptions are changing.
For the Igbos, some disabilities were believed to be caused
by spiritual forces or ancestral displeasures of someone’s activities, or their
fathers. Some disabilities receive heavy social stigmas such that people with
such disabilities are marginalized or treated differently because of societal
misconceptions.
Traditional and Cultural Mythological Model of Disability
Following the arguments about the theoretical models of
disability, one would suggest that Igbo concept of disability could be viewed
from the perspective of traditional or cultural mythological model of
disability. This type of model is rooted in tradition which views some
disability as retributory or karmic or superstitious. Such a model considers
disabilities as forms of punishment for past wrongdoings or transgressions which
often lead to social stigma and marginalization of people with disabilities.
Thus, releasing the individual with a disability may require
performing sacrifices, reciting incantations, pouring libations, or casting
amulets to appease the gods.
Nevertheless, the Traditional and Cultural Mythological
Model advocates for embracing disability as an intrinsic aspect of human nature
and urges the removal of all associated stigmas and marginalization.
Nevertheless, the tide is changing. With the influence of
the theoretical models of disability, in Igbo land, people are becoming
conscious and indeed recognize that disability is a type of medical condition
that require proper care, support, and inclusion.
Again, with a social model of disability, people with disabilities
are today being included in decision making, especially in things that affect
them. City builders and transportation systems are considering the impact of
their environment on people with disabilities.
Persona – Chikodi Nwajagu
Background
Chikodi Nwajagu
is a 35-year-old man living in Awka, the capital city of Anambra. He was
diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) at the age of 30. Chikodi grew up in a
rural village in the Akwaeke LGA, where he completed his primary and secondary
education. He moved to Awka for higher education and graduated with a degree in
Information Technology. Chikodi works as a freelance web developer.
Goals
- Manage his MS symptoms through a combination of medication, physical therapy, and a healthy lifestyle.
- Expand his freelance business and eventually start his own IT company.
- Raise awareness of MS in Nigeria and advocate for better healthcare services for people with disabilities.
Challenges
- Limited access to healthcare resources for MS, including a lack of specialized neurologists and MS nurses.
- Chikodi faces social stigma and misconceptions about his condition, which can affect his mental health and social interactions.
- MS has affected his mobility, making it difficult to navigate the city and access public transportation.
Interests
- Chikodi loves being updated with the latest tech trends and enjoys coding and developing new software.
- He finds solace in music and enjoys playing the guitar.
- Chikodi is involved in local community groups that support people with disabilities.
Conflicts
- Due to his condition, Chikodi sometimes feels isolated from his peers and struggles with maintaining social relationships.
- The cost of managing MS can be high, and as a freelancer, his income is not always stable.
- Balancing his advocacy work with his own health needs can be challenging.
Chikodi’s Story
Chikodi’s
journey with MS began five years ago when he started experiencing unexplained
fatigue and muscle weakness. After several visits to different doctors, he was
finally diagnosed with MS. The diagnosis was a turning point in his life,
leading him to reevaluate his career and personal goals.
Despite the challenges, Chikodi remains optimistic and determined. He has adapted his work environment to accommodate his needs, using ergonomic furniture and assistive technology. Chikodi’s advocacy work is driven by his own experiences, and he hopes to inspire others with similar conditions to pursue their dreams and not be defined by their disabilities.
Conclusion
The Igbo concept of disability encompasses various
perspectives, including traditional beliefs such as orusi and nkwarụ.
These concepts often attribute disabilities to supernatural causes or
retributory actions, where past transgressions or offenses are believed to manifest
physical or mental impairments.
However, traditional practices aimed at addressing
disabilities, such as performing sacrifices, incantations, and other
ritualistic activities to appease the gods, reflect the deep-rooted cultural
and spiritual beliefs within the Igbo society. These practices underscore the
complexity of disability perceptions in Igbo culture and the ongoing efforts to
balance traditional beliefs with modern understandings of inclusivity and
disability rights.
The Traditional and Cultural Mythological Model of Disability emphasizes the need to accept disability as an intrinsic part of human nature and urges the community to cast off stigmas and marginalization associated with it. The evolving cultural landscape offers a glimmer of hope for greater acceptance and support for individuals with disabilities within the Igbo community.
Jo Nnabugwu
Accessibility Specialist | Cultural Storyteller
Championing diversity and inclusion in digital spaces.
Empowering communities through technology and storytelling.
Bridging cultures, innovation, and human connection—one design at a time.
Ensuring accessibility is at the heart of every design.
Read more about my work