These days, it is almost impossible to practice Odinani without needing the services of a Dibia at some point. This is because it is a Dibia’s responsibilty to bridge the physical and spiritual realms, and offer solutions for health, prosperity, and conflict resolution. It is also sad but true that finding a genuine and ethical Dibia can be challenging, especially in a modern world, with alot of people returning to their roots, where opportunists may exploit cultural traditions.

This guide will walk you through what to look for, questions to ask, and red flags to avoid when seeking a trustworthy Dibia. Your goal could be to reconnect with your roots or explore traditional healing for the first time, either way, these insights will empower you to make informed, respectful decisions.

The Role of a Dibia

Before beginning your search, it’s very important to understand the Dibia’s multifaceted role:

Healer: Addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual ailments using herbs, rituals, and divination.
Diviner: Interprets messages from ancestors or deities or spiritual guides through divination tools which may vary.
Mediator: Resolves disputes, curses (nso ala), or communal tensions through ritual reconciliation.
Custodian of Knowledge: Preserves oral history, cultural practices, indigenous knowledge and ethical codes (Omenala).

A “good” Dibia operates with integrity and a deep commitment to community welfare—not personal gain.

Key Qualities of an Authentic Dibia

A. Lineage and Training

Be Curious: Seek to know the Dibias background, and where they come from.
Authentic Dibia undergo rigorous apprenticeships, sometimes spanning decades, under a master Dibia. Their knowledge is passed down through generations. Be wary of self-proclaimed “Dibias” with no verifiable mentorship or ancestral ties.

B. Community Reputation

Investigate: Seek recommendations from other trusted practitioners, elders, or community members. A reputable Dibia will have a longstanding presence and positive testimonials. Avoid those who rely solely on social media ads or flashy promises.

C. Ethical Conduct

Observe: A genuine Dibia prioritizes your well-being over profit. They will:
- Avoid fearmongering (e.g., exaggerating curses to extort money).
- Respect boundaries (no pressure to participate in rituals).
- Uphold confidentiality (private matters stay private).

D. Transparency in Practice

Question: “Can you explain the process, costs, and purpose of this ritual?”
Authentic Dibias have no issues with demystifying their methods. They’ll clarify the meaning of symbols, herbs, or offerings and set realistic expectations.

Red Flags to Avoid

The “Instant Fix” Trap: Beware of Dibias who claim to solve lifelong problems in one session or with one single ritual. Traditional healing is a journey, not a quick fix.
Exorbitant Fees: While certain offerings and tokens are customary, excessive demands for money (especially upfront) signal exploitation. Keep in mind that this is very contextual to the service you are requesting for. A Dibia is also free to place whatever value they like on their time, but should have no issues justifying it.
Fear-Based Tactics: Avoid practitioners who thrive on inducing panic (e.g., “Your entire family is cursed unless you pay!”).
Isolation from Community: A Dibia operating in secrecy, without ties to a community, may lack accountability.

Practical Steps to Verify Authenticity

A. Start with Research

Read books or scholarly works on Igbo spirituality.
Attend cultural events or join available communities to connect with knowledgeable practitioners.

B. Request a Consultation

A first meeting should feel like a dialogue, not a sales pitch. A good Dibia will ask detailed questions about your background, intentions, and concerns.

C. Trust Your Intuition

Do you feel respected, safe, and spiritually aligned? If something feels “off,” honor that instinct.

Ethical Considerations

Cultural Respect: Approach the Dibia with humility. Avoid treating rituals as exotic trends.
Informed Consent: Never proceed with a ritual you don’t understand. Ask for clarity on every step.
Balance Traditions with Modernity: A good Dibia respects science and may even collaborate with other professionals when necessary.

Concluding Thoughts: Honor the Tradition, Protect Yourself

Finding a true Dibia requires patience, discernment, and respect for Odinani practices. You can avoid charlatans and connect with a Dibia who honors the sacredness of their role by keeping an eye on their background, ethics, and community trust.

Remember: The goal is not just to “get results” but to build a harmonious relationship with your spiritual guides, community, and self.

Pro Tip: Document your journey. Share your experiences (while respecting privacy) to help others navigate this path wisely.

Have questions or experiences to share? Comment below! Daalu!

Special shout out to Sophia Bolden for raising the question that inspired this post.