ASYMMETRICAL RELATIONSHIPS AND THE PRECARITY OF WOMEN AND GIRLS IN IGBO CULTURE

In Igbo culture, the intricate web of institutions, social relations, beliefs, values, and practices have historically shaped and perpetuated asymmetrical relationships, particularly concerning the precarious position of women. This paper explores the complex dynamics of women and girls in all forms of kinship ties both consanquineal and affinal relationships that leave them dependent, precarious and predisposed to exploitation and enslavement in Igbo society. The analytical framework of Asymmetrical dependency was applied to demonstrate how Igbo culture deeply rooted in patriarchy position women and girls as subordinate to men through domination by their parents, brothers, husbands and in-laws. Intersectionality approach also was used to explain the intersecting realities of systemic inequality that promote female subjugation and enslavement. Ethnography; a qualitative method of social research was employed and data were collected through participant observation, unstructured interview and secondary sources. Institutions play a pivotal role in reinforcing these asymmetrical relationships. Beliefs and values are equally instrumental in upholding and entrenching this gender hierarchy. The institution of marriage, for instance, often places women in positions of economic dependency on their husbands. Moreover, the persistence of harmful cultural norms, such as forced marriages and widowhood rites, perpetuates women's subjugation and vulnerability. Gender-based violence remains prevalent, often normalized within the confines of family privacy. Women are frequently excluded from decision-making processes, both in the household and the wider community, diminishing their agency. To address these issues and promote gender equity in Igbo culture, the study engaged with these complex dynamics at multiple levels. Policy initiatives that challenge deeply ingrained cultural norms are a formidable aspect of the resistance against asymmetrical relationships. The study recommended that collective resistance against entrenched norms holds the future for a more equitable and inclusive space for women and girls within Igbo culture.