The Akunakuna are an ethnic group in Nigeria and Cameroon, closely related to the Efik, Bahumono, Korring, and Ibibio peoples. They are primarily located around the Cross River region, with an estimated population of over 350,000 people.
Name
- The term Akunakuna is an Anglicized form of the Igbo word akwünaakwüna, originally referring to a town inhabited by the Akunakuna people.
- In the Gwune language, the Akunakuna refer to themselves as agwaGwunɛ, which is etymologically related but distinct from the Igbo exonym.
- Historical sources, including New Dimensions in African Linguistics and Languages, note that during World War I, Akunakuna women (both married and unmarried) were recruited to serve in the West African Frontier Force as cooks and soldiers’ companions.
- Over time, the shortened Igbo term akwüna became a derogatory slang for prostitute.
- Alternate spellings of Akunakuna include: Agwa'agune, Akuraakura, and Akura:kura.
History
- 1846: The Umon people attacked Akunakuna canoes on the Cross River, disrupting their trade with the Efik, who had acquired European luxury goods.
- The attack served as a casus belli, sparking a prolonged conflict between the Akunakuna and Umon.
- Outcome of the war:
- Akunakuna were defeated after years of fighting.
- Efik mediators negotiated peace, requiring the Akunakuna to pay annual tribute to the King of Umon in exchange for free river passage and peace.
- 1888: A treaty was signed with the British, granting full colonial control over Akunakuna land.
References
- New Dimensions in African Linguistics and Languages
- Historical treaties and Cross River colonial records