A post shared on social media by Ifeoma Igbotic (@IfeomaIgbotic) has sparked conversations after claiming that market women at Coco Market, Okpoko Layout, Onitsha, discovered what was described as an Osu.
According to the post:
"Market women at Coco Market, Okpoko Layout, Onitsha, found an OSU. According to legend, only people with 'clean hands' can touch it."
The claim has generated mixed reactions online, with many users discussing the cultural beliefs surrounding the Osu system in Igbo tradition. In some communities, the term Osu refers to a historical caste system, while various local legends and folklore have also become associated with objects or symbols believed to carry spiritual significance.
However, there is no independent verification of the claim made in the post, and beliefs that only certain people can touch such an object are rooted in traditional folklore rather than established fact.
The incident has nonetheless attracted widespread attention on social media, with many calling for calm and urging people to avoid spreading unverified claims or stigmatizing individuals based on cultural beliefs.
What are your thoughts on this report and the cultural beliefs surrounding the Osu tradition? Share your views respectfully in the comments.
https://x.com/IfeomaIgbotic/status/2083242755082363316
Market Women Discover Alleged Osu Symbol at Coco Market in Onitsha
by Naijatalks:
1:47pm On Aug 1, 2026