THE UMUOFIA ORACLE
Wednesday, October 1, 1890
Okonkwo Slays Adopted Son
By Sera Arcaro
Staff Writer
IGUEDO—Okonkwo killed his adopted son, Ikemefuna, in the forest outside of Umuofia yesterday. The command to execute Ikemefuna came from The Oracle of the Hills and Caves.Ikemefuna had been given as a sacrifice to Umuofia from Mbaino and lived with Okonkwo.
A group of men took Ikemefuna to the forest and told him he was going home. Once they were outside Umuofia, a man struck Ikemefuna first, then Okonkwo struck the fatal blow.
One of the elders who witnessed the execution reported, “The boy cried out, ‘My father, they have killed me!’ and ran toward Okonkwo. Okonkwo had a fearful look on his face as he struck Ikemefuna with his machete.”
Ezeudo, the oldest man in the village, was the first to inform Okonkwo that it was time for Ikemefuna to be sacrificed. “I advised Okonkwo not to bear a hand in the boy’s death, since he calls him father,” said Ezuedo. “I knew it would not please the earth goddess.”
Ikemefuna had lived with Okonkwo for three years. He was good friends with Nwoye, Okonkwo’s first son. Nwoye said, “Ikemefuna taught me so much. He knew how to make flutes and he knew all the names of the birds and tress. I can’t believe I’ll never see him again.”
When questioned about his father’s role in the death of Ikemefuna, Nwoye did not want to comment.
Ikemefuna was given to Umuofia as compensation for Udo’s wife, who was killed by his father. Okonkwo was chosen to house him
The forest where Ikemefuna was killed.
due to his high status in the village. Okonkwo gave him to his first wife to take care of.
Nwoye’s Mother said, “I understand why Okonkwo had to do it. It is important for him to always appear strong. He didn’t want anyone to think he was weak and unable to kill the boy.”
She added, “I know it was hard for him though. He really loved Ikemefuna, although of course he never showed it. And Ikemefuna admired Okonkwo. He even called him ‘father’.”
When questioned about the incident, Okonkwo refused to answer any questions. His only response was, “Woman, do you dare to question a man with titles? Go home and cook supper for your husband.”