Orlu
Imo, Nigeria
Why visit Orlu?
Orlu is the second-largest city in Imo State after Owerri, and the headquarters of Orlu Local Government Area. Its name derives from the Igbo "Ọ̀lụ̀" (origin/source) and "ụlọ" (house/home), roughly "a place of origin." By tradition, Orlu began as a cluster of cooperating villages, and its position near a trade road linking Igboland with the Niger Delta and Cross River area brought it into regular contact with other groups, including Aro traders from Arochukwu. Around 1900 the town grew into an important hub for Christian missionaries and traders. Today Orlu is informally known as Imo State's "commercial capital," a centre of enterprise and industry. Residents are predominantly Igbo and speak the Isuama dialect.
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Orlu is reached by road from Owerri, the Imo State capital.
What are the things to do?
- Orlu Market — a large market reflecting the town's role as a trade hub.
- Igwe of Orlu's Palace — seat of the town's traditional ruler.
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Ask on WhatsAppNearby in Imo
More places to explore around Orlu.
Guide content as of June 2026. Portions adapted from Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0.
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