Traditional Architecture of Ikwerre Land. A Case Study of Emohua: Cradle to Post Modernism

Abstract

The speedy exit of traditional values and culture is evident in all facets of human life and practice; architectural practice included. Due to the impacts of globalisation and industrialisation, certain negative effects have surfaced in every aspect of life. In Nigeria today, most people’s desire for “modern” cement homes built as opposed to the now archaic buildings of old, may render them stoic and uncompromising. As a result, many may prefer to go without a roof over their heads than make do with old-fashioned buildings of mud and clay. The report is more of picturesque ethnographical studies of the architecture of Rumuche Emohua. Through the study, basic characteristics are presented. Rumuche Emohua a town in Emohua local government area, Rivers State, Nigeria consists of indigenes who venture, largely, into occupations such as farming, fishing, and hunting as a result of the availability of land and such natural resources. In this report, the ethnological research approach was adopted so that the people’s architectural character is documented and presented in this report. In this report, the family lineage of a young man who is mature for family responsibility development is allowed a home in the style of I-home architecture. From this, the growth of his family causes the house to evolve into the family setting home structure called the courtyard dwelling. Both the single and courtyard homes have certain fizzled features that remain in spite of the change such as the family well, the kitchen, and the toilet/bathroom. Although, the kitchen is increased to carry activities posed by the expanded family size, the family well remains a fixed central place. Due to the impacts of industrialisation, the traditional construction method to has been eradicated, although some traces of the courtyard and single home settings are still existent. Part of the factors that impacted to this, is the sparse availability of land due to a rise in population. Also presented are basic construction methods and materials. All of these are recorded for future use, due to the continuous extinction of the traditional features in today’s society, particularly in the Rumuche Emohua community.