The term “Ndi ofe mmanu” is an Igbo phrase that refers to the Yoruba people. It translates to “People of oily soup” and stems from the Igbo’s perception that Yorubas cook soups with too much oil.
The phrase likely originated from cultural differences in cuisine between the two ethnic groups. Yoruba cuisine is known for its liberal use of palm oil in dishes like efo riro and gbegiri soup. In contrast, Igbo cuisine tends to use less oil.
Over time, this culinary distinction became a source of stereotyping and prejudice. The Igbo began using “Ndi ofe mmanu” to poke fun at the Yoruba’s oily food preferences.
The term also took on a derogatory connotation, implying that Yorubas are greasy or unclean.Yorubas, in turn, developed their own slur for the Igbo. They refer to them as “Omo ajokuta mamumi,” which means “someone from the tribe that munches stones without drinking water.” This alludes to the Igbo staple foods of eba and akpu, which can be dry and hard.
These tribal slurs speak to a deeper problem of prejudice and lack of understanding between the Igbo and Yoruba people. They perpetuate the harmful notion that Nigerians from different regions are fundamentally separate and cannot coexist.
The tragic events of the Nigerian Civil War, in which the Igbo attempted to secede, have also contributed to the ongoing tensions between the two groups. The war created a legacy of distrust and animosity that generations have passed down.
Despite these differences, the Igbo and Yoruba people share many cultural similarities. Their languages have some root words in common, and they both have rich traditions of music, dance, and storytelling. However, these commonalities are often overlooked in favor of focusing on the differences.
In conclusion, the term “Ndi ofe mmanu” is a product of cultural stereotyping and prejudice between the Igbo and Yoruba people. It highlights the need for greater understanding and empathy between Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups. By celebrating our shared humanity and embracing our differences, we can build a more united and prosperous nation.
