The Emerging Dynamics of Identity Struggles: An Evaluation of the Subtle Efforts at Decoloniality in Contemporary African Society

The need for identity has always been a major issue for humanity in its search for significance and meaning. In the context of African societies, colonisation has sparked extensive debate over the erosion of indigenous identities and the dismantling of traditional social structures. Utilising a multi-method approach, this study examines the subtle efforts at decoloniality in contemporary African society, focusing on Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. Results showed a decline in the appropriation of foreign names among Nsukka people and the incorporation of “sainthood” into indigenous religious practices. Primordial beliefs and practices such as ịkpọ ma and ịnwu ma are being revived, while the practice of offering sacrifice has gained prominence. These findings indicate a substantial return to traditional socio-cultural practices aimed at re-establishing an indigenous identity, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of the Nsukka people in the face of historical and ongoing external influences.