[1][2] These people are from Igbo-speaking ethnic group whose early history is adversely affected by a lack of, or non-existent, written records.
[3] Umuoji is bounded by Ogidi, Ojoto, Uke, Abatete and Nkpor and has an estimated population of 80,000 people which includes local residents in its 23 villages and citizens in diaspora.
[2] The Aro people were great warriors with sophisticated weapons that gave them a military advantage over the other inhabitants of the Igbo nation.
As noted by Ekpunobi (1998), "the story is an attempt by local historians to link Umuoji with the once-famous Arochukwu trading expedition."
This position is borne out by the fact that, as of present, there is not yet any evidence of Aro-Abatete-Umuoji-Nkpor connection either in their usages, customs, or traditions.
As noted by Ekpunobi (1988) and strongly supported by Nwosu (2013) "before the advent of the Europeans, Nkpor-Umuoji-Abatete went to Eze Nri to pay their Nru (annual homage).
Ilozue (1966), in his work-Umuoji Cultural Heritage-wrote equally that "the chief of Nri is the only person who can announce or denounce the sacredness of anything in Umuoji.
[12] In this respect, a consideration may be made by the leadership of the three communities on the re-enactment and celebration of the almost moribund feast called the OMA-NNE.
Before now, the Umuoji kingship rotated among the five villages of Eziora quarter, being the first son that inherits the father's Obi in Igbo tradition and custom.
[17] The present Igwe of Umuoji, HRH Dr Cyril Enweze (Ebubedike I), a renowned economist who retired from the IMF as Director Of Operations IFAD and Vice President of ADB, is from Ifite in the Ifiteora quarter having succeeded Igwe Akum Micheal A. Nweze(Anumili I) who came from Ire in the Eziora quarter.
Other traditional institutions in Umuoji are the Nze-na-Ozo, Age Grades, Umuofia, Umuokpu and Umuada etc.
[22] Another cultural belief of the Umuoji people is to honor Eke (the Python), which is dedicated to the river deity, Idemili.