West African Court of Appeal (WACA) 1958 Ruling: Port Harcourt Belongs to the Igbos

 

In a landmark decision in 1958, the West African Court of Appeal (WACA) ruled that Port Harcourt, historically known as Igweocha, belongs to the Igbos. The case, which was between the Ikwerre and Okrika communities, focused on the ownership and status of Port Harcourt.

WACA’s ruling in favor of the Igbos has remained unchallenged to this day, with no appeals filed since the judgment. During legal proceedings, renowned Nigerian author Elechi Amadi, when confronted with the WACA judgment by Ohaneze Ndigbo’s legal counsel, acknowledged the decision. He admitted that the Ikwerre people had enlisted the support of their wealthy Igbo brothers during the litigation against the Okrika people, which influenced the court’s ruling.

When asked if he had appealed the ruling, Amadi confirmed that no appeal was ever pursued. The WACA judgment, which remains valid, legally affirms that Port Harcourt is an Igbo city.

Historically, the original inhabitants of areas like Obigbo were primarily from Ngwa, Arochukwu, and Owerri, reinforcing the city’s deep Igbo roots. Legally, traditionally, and historically, Port Harcourt—known originally as Igweocha or Iguacha—is recognized as part of Igbo land.

This ruling stands as an enduring testament to the city’s connection with the Igbo people.