“Oriaku Vs Okpataku”: The Changing Roles of Femininity within The Patriarchal Igbo Tradition in Nigeria

Ifeoma Ojiakor (Imo State University, Owerri)
Adeline Nkwam-Uwaoma (Imo State University, Owerri)
Collins C Awaeze (Rhema University, Aba- Abia State)
Emeka Williams Etumnu (Imo State University, Owerri)

Az-Zahra: Journal of Gender and Family Studies
Vol 3, No 2 (2023)

Over time, the ease of access has been to the advantage of men and the disadvantage of women, especially in a traditional society like Nigeria. However, despite the marginalization, it appears that women are beginning to challenge norms, traditions, cultures, and stereotypes by breaking free from the shackles of patriarchy. Hence, this study examines the current perception of femininity concerning employment and income. Specifically, it aimed at understanding how the clamor for gender equality and equity has changed one of the characteristics of femininity from “Oriaku” to “Okpataku” in a typical patriarchal society like Anambra State, Nigeria. Using the Constructionist Theory of representation as a framework, the study adopts in-depth interviews as a qualitative approach. Findings reveal that both men and women are more comfortable with being Okpataku than Oriaku, owing to the recent harsh economic reality in the country. Recommendations were made based on the findings.