Page "History of Nigeria" Paragraph 10

With the decline of Nri kingdom in the 1400-1600 AD, several states once under their influence, became powerful economic oracular oligarchies and large commercial states that dominated Igboland.

The neighboring Awka city-state rose in power as a result of their powerful Agbala oracle and metalworking expertise.

The Onitsha Kingdom, which was originally inhabited by Igbos from East of the Niger, was founded in the 16th century by migrants from Anioma ( Western Igboland ).

Later groups like the Igala traders from the hinterland settled in Onitsha in the 18th century.

Western Igbo kingdoms like Aboh, dominated trade in the lower Niger area from the 17th century until European penetration.

The Umunoha state in the Owerri area used the Igwe ka Ala oracle at their advantage.

However, the Cross River Igbo state like the Aro had the greatest influence in Igboland and adjacent areas after the decline of Nri.