Between Myth and Medicine: The Socio Historical Transformation of Ogbanje Beliefs in Post Colonial Nigeria

Abstract

The concept of Ogbanje, historically perceived as malevolent spirit children who repeatedly die and reincarnate to torment their families, has undergone significant transformation in post-colonial Nigeria. Rooted in Igbo mythology, the belief in Ogbanje was closely tied to socio-cultural interpretations of infant mortality. However, with advancements in medical science, particularly in the understanding of genetic disorders such as sickle cell anemia, there has been a gradual shift in perception from supernatural causation to medical explanations. This paper examines the socio-historical evolution of Ogbanje beliefs, tracing their origins, colonial influences, and the impact of modern medicine on indigenous spiritual interpretations. It explores how traditional practices surrounding Ogbanje, including divination and ritualistic interventions, have been challenged and, in some cases, integrated into contemporary medical discourse. The research focuses on how children diagnosed with medical conditions, particularly sickle cell disease, were historically misidentified as Ogbanje and subjected to mistreatment, neglect, and harmful rituals. The study concludes that while medical advancements have provided scientific explanations for conditions previously ascribed to Ogbanje, residual cultural interpretations persist, reflecting a complex interplay between tradition and modernity in Nigerian society.