The Umuasua Autonomous Community, one of the notable border settlements in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, holds a rich historical, genealogical, and geographical heritage that continues to shape its identity in contemporary times.
Historical Background
According to oral traditions, the Isuikwuato clan traces its lineage to Okraka, son of Ojim, believed to have migrated from the Nile region of Upper Egypt. Okraka fathered three sons – Enyi, Kuowu (Awu), and Ogudu – who established the Imenyi, Isu-Amawu, and Oguduasaa sub-clans respectively.
From Kuowu (Awu), seven sons were born through two wives. Among them was Asukwu, whose descendants later became the Umuasua people. Historically agrarian, Umuasua has evolved with the influence of Christianity, Western education, and modernization, producing professionals across various fields of human endeavor.
Genealogy
The progenitor Asukwu had two sons – Chukwu and Isuakoli. While the lineage of Chukwu (Umuchukwu) became extinct, Isuakoli continued the family line, giving birth to Abo and Agidi.
- Abo had four sons: Ohioroko, Apumiri, Oka, and Oho.
- Agidi had five sons: Iremozu, Hiehie, Hiokocha, Omina Ukwu, and Omina Nta.
From these lineages emerged the family units (Onu Uhu), compounds (Ezi/Umunna Nta), and larger kindreds (Umunna Ukwu) that make up Umuasua today.
Geographical Location
Strategically located southeast of the Isuikwuato clan, Umuasua sits directly opposite the Isuikwuato Local Government Area Headquarters, on a hilly landscape that “overlooks” the administrative center.
The community shares boundaries with seven neighboring settlements:
- North: Otampa
- East: Amaba
- West: Eluama and Umuobiala
- South: Nkpa-Ukwa
- Southeast: Amorji
- Southwest: Amebe (now merged with Umuobiala)
With Nkpa-Ukwa and Amorji situated in Bende Local Government Area, Umuasua is also regarded as a border community.
Physical Features
The community’s terrain is a blend of hilly, stony landscapes and sandy plains, naturally divided by the Iyi-Oka stream, which serves as both a water source and a natural boundary.
In addition to Iyi-Oka, Umuasua boasts several perennial streams including Isi Iyi-Oka, Iyi-Ohuo, Iyi-Ogo, Iyi-Nta, Iyi-Ezi, Iyi-Oka Amaegbu, and Iyi-Aboko, ensuring year-round access to water for domestic and agricultural use.
